Cheesy Pepper Jelly Bites are a delightful blend of creamy, savoury cheese and sweet-spicy pepper jelly, creating the perfect balance of flavours in every bite. These bite-sized appetizers are incredibly easy to assemble, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers.
Cheesy Pepper Jelly Bites:
With their vibrant color, irresistible taste, and minimal prep time, Cheesy Pepper Jelly Bites have become a favourite crowd-pleaser. Served on crackers, pastry cups, or toasted bread, they deliver big flavour in a small, elegant package.
History:
Pepper jelly originated in the southern United States, where sweet and spicy condiments became popular accompaniments to cheese and crackers. Over time, home cooks began pairing pepper jelly with cream cheese or cheddar, transforming it into an iconic appetizer. Cheesy Pepper Jelly Bites are a modern, party-friendly adaptation of this classic Southern-inspired flavor combination.
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Cheesy Pepper Jelly Bites
Ingredients
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup pepper jelly (red or green)
- Crackers, mini toast rounds, or phyllo cups
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with shredded cheese until smooth.
- Spread or pipe the cheese mixture onto crackers, toast rounds, or into phyllo cups.
- Spoon a small amount of pepper jelly on top of each bite.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
- Red pepper jelly is sweeter; green is slightly spicier.
- Allow cream cheese to soften for easy mixing.
- Assemble close to serving time for crisp crackers.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Tips for Cheesy Pepper Jelly:
- Pipe the cheese mixture for a polished look.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Use flavoured crackers for variety.
- Warm slightly in the oven for a melty version.
- Balance heat by adjusting the amount of jelly.
FAQs for Cheesy Pepper Jelly:
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cheese base ahead and assemble just before serving.
Q2: What cheese works best besides cream cheese?
Goat cheese or mascarpone are great alternatives.
Q3: Are these spicy?
They are mildly spicy; heat depends on the pepper jelly used.
Q4: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free crackers or veggie bases.
Q5: How long can they sit out?
Up to 2 hours at room temperature is safe for serving.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Pepper Jelly Bites are the ultimate easy appetizer—sweet, savoury, and just a little spicy. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavour, they’re perfect for entertaining any time of year. Whether for holidays, parties, or casual snacking, these bites are guaranteed to disappear fast.