Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

🖋️ Written by Emma

Why Make This Recipe

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites is an easy and delicious recipe that everyone will love. It’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet pepper jelly creates a burst of flavor that brightens up any occasion. Plus, you can have these bite-sized treats ready in no time!

How to Make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
3. Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
4. Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
5. Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

Serve these bites warm or at room temperature on a beautiful platter. They make a great finger food for any gathering. Pair them with drinks for a fun appetizer or serve them as part of a larger spread. Everyone will enjoy picking them up and indulging in the delightful flavors!

How to Store Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to warm them back up before serving.

Tips to Make Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to easily spread in the shells.
• Feel free to experiment with different flavors of jelly for a unique twist.
• For a spicier kick, add a small amount of crushed red pepper to the cream cheese.

Variation

You can switch up the toppings by using different types of cheese, like goat cheese or feta, instead of cream cheese. You can also try adding herbs or spices to the cheese for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filled shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for best results.

What can I use instead of phyllo shells?
You can use mini tart shells or even small crackers if you prefer a different base.

Can I freeze these bites?
Freezing is not recommended as they may not retain their crispness after baking. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites

An easy and delicious dip and bite-sized treat combining creamy cheese and sweet pepper jelly, perfect for parties or cozy nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 17 minutes mins

Servings: 15 bites

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 50

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Bites

• 1 box mini phyllo shells 15-count
• 4 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
• to taste Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion optional, for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
3. Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese.
4. Top each with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
5. Bake for 5–7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, if using.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened. Experiment with different jelly flavors for a unique twist. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper to the cream cheese.