Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe | Easy Party Snack
Sweet, spicy pepper jelly layered over creamy cheese makes the ultimate appetizer dip and bite-sized snack. Ready in minutes, this crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for holidays, game days, or casual gatherings.
Equipment
- Serving platter or shallow dish
- Small spoon for jelly
- Knife for slicing cream cheese
- Pastry shells, crackers, or bread (for bites)
- Optional: garnish tools (herb scissors, nut chopper)
Ingredients
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (or whipped cream cheese)
- ½ cup pepper jelly (red, green, jalapeño, or cranberry pepper jelly)
- Crackers, baguette slices, or phyllo shells for serving
- Optional garnishes: fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro), chopped nuts, or fruit slices
- Optional cheese swaps: goat cheese, brie, or mascarpone
Instructions
Dip Version:
- Place cream cheese block on a serving platter.
- Spoon pepper jelly over the top, letting it cascade down the sides.
- Surround with crackers or bread for dipping.
Bite-Sized Version:
- Fill phyllo shells or spread cream cheese on crackers.
- Top each with 1 teaspoon of pepper jelly.
- Garnish with herbs, nuts, or fruit slices for color and crunch.
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
- Pro Tip: Chill cream cheese slightly before slicing or filling shells — it holds shape better.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Dip can be assembled 1–2 days ahead and refrigerated. Assemble bites fresh for crispness.
- Storage: Store dip in fridge for 2–3 days. Do not freeze assembled bites.
- Variations: Try cranberry pepper jelly for holidays, jalapeño jelly for spice lovers, or vegan cream cheese for plant-based guests.
- Serving Tip: Double the recipe — these disappear quickly at gatherings!