why make this recipe
This snack is fast and simple. It needs few ingredients and little time. You can make many bites for a party or a small plate for a snack. The sweet and spicy pepper jelly pairs well with smooth cream cheese. It also goes nicely with warm dishes like Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a full meal.
introduction
Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites give you a mix of cream, sweet, and heat in every bite. You can make them ahead or right before guests arrive. The phyllo shells add a small crisp base that holds the soft filling. These bites work for holiday trays, weeknight snacks, or potlucks.
how to make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
Make the cream cheese soft so it fills easily. Spoon into the shells, top with pepper jelly, then warm a little in the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme or green onion for color and a little fresh taste.
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)
Directions :
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
how to serve Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
Place the bites on a small tray or platter. Serve warm or at room temp. You can add extra pepper jelly on the side for people who want more heat. For a light spread, serve with finger sandwiches or other small bites like Strawberry Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches.
how to store Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for 2–3 days. If shells get soft, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to crisp up before serving.
tips to make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
- Soften cream cheese at room temp for 10–15 minutes. It fills shells easier.
- Use a small spoon or piping bag for neat filling.
- Watch baking time: phyllo shells can brown fast.
- Add garnish right after baking so it looks fresh.
variation (if any)
- Use flavored cream cheese (herb or garlic) for a savory twist.
- Try different jellies like jalapeño or apricot for new flavors.
- Swap phyllo shells for cucumber rounds for a cool, low-carb bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Fill shells and cover. Reheat for a few minutes or serve at room temp.
Q: Can I use regular crackers instead of phyllo shells?
A: Yes. Use sturdy crackers so they do not get soggy.
Q: How spicy is this snack?
A: The heat depends on the pepper jelly. Use mild jelly for little heat, or spicy jelly for more kick.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes. Make more shells and keep them on trays. Bake in batches as needed.
Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
- Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
- Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
