Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip
A vibrant appetizer combining sweet-spicy pepper jelly with smooth cream cheese, perfect for quick entertaining and easy bites on crackers or fresh slices.
Equipment
- 1 microwave-safe plate for softening cream cheese
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 sturdy spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 2 8-ounce blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder optional
- Pinch of salt
- 1 10-ounce jar pepper jelly, any heat level
- 1-2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives or cilantro optional, for garnish
- Assorted sturdy crackers pretzel crisps, toasted baguette slices, cucumber rounds, or crisp apple/pear slices for serving
Instructions
- Soften cream cheese to room temperature or microwave in short intervals to avoid overheating.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Shape the cream cheese on a serving plate into a disc or preferred form with a small well in the center.
- Warm pepper jelly gently if firm until pourable but do not boil.
- Spoon the pepper jelly over the cream cheese, filling the well or spreading evenly to create contrast.
- Sprinkle chopped chives or cilantro on top for garnish.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, cucumber slices, or fruit slices, topping each with cream cheese and a small dollop of pepper jelly.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust pepper jelly to preferred spice level.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate and serve within 24 hours.