Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe
Introduction
This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe is a perfect blend of creamy and sweet with a hint of spice. Ideal for parties or casual gatherings, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Arrange the mini phyllo shells evenly on a baking sheet.
- Step 3: Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese.
- Step 4: Top each with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
- Step 5: Bake the filled shells for 5–7 minutes until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, if desired.
- Step 7: Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Choose your pepper jelly variety to control the spice level—milder or hotter according to your taste.
- Pre-fill the phyllo shells and refrigerate them until ready to bake to save time before guests arrive.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or green onion for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- For a seasonal twist, try cranberry-pepper jelly during the holidays to add a festive touch.
- Serve this appetizer alongside a mix of crackers and fresh vegetables to accommodate different dietary preferences.
Storage
Store any leftover baked bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving to restore crispness. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be served at room temperature as well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can fill the phyllo shells with cream cheese and pepper jelly in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This makes preparation quick and easy when guests arrive.
What can I use if I don’t have mini phyllo shells?
If mini phyllo shells aren’t available, small tartlet shells or sturdy crackers can work as substitutes, although the texture will differ slightly. Just be mindful of baking times if using substitutes.
PrintQuick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe
This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe combines creamy, tangy cream cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of red pepper jelly, nestled inside crispy mini phyllo shells. Perfect for entertaining, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and bring a delightful balance of flavors and textures to any appetizer spread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 15 appetizer bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the phyllo shells.
- Arrange phyllo shells: Place the mini phyllo shells evenly spaced on a baking sheet to ensure even baking.
- Fill with cream cheese: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each phyllo shell, creating a creamy base for the jelly.
- Top with pepper jelly: Add approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese in each shell to introduce a sweet and spicy flavor.
- Bake: Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the phyllo shells become crisp and the cream cheese slightly warms through.
- Garnish: Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion if desired to enhance both the flavor and presentation.
- Serve: Enjoy the appetizer warm or at room temperature, perfect for any occasion or party platter.
Notes
- You can use any variety of pepper jelly—adjusting the spice level to your preference.
- To save time, pre-fill the phyllo shells with cream cheese and pepper jelly, then refrigerate them until ready to bake.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or green onions for added color and flavor.
- For a festive twist during holidays, try using cranberry-pepper jelly to add a seasonal flair.
- Serve alongside a variety of crackers and fresh vegetables to accommodate all dietary preferences.
Keywords: pepper jelly, cream cheese, appetizer bites, mini phyllo shells, party appetizers, easy appetizers, holiday snacks
