Description
This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a delightful blend of creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and sweet-spicy pepper jelly. Baked to perfection and topped with warm pepper jelly, it’s an irresistible appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings, served with crackers, chips, or sliced bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Base
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping
- 7 ounces pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheese dip evenly.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Bake the Cheese Dip: Transfer the cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish or pie pan, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and heated through.
- Prepare the Pepper Jelly: While the cheese mixture is baking, place the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe container. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the jelly is melted and smooth for easy topping.
- Top with Pepper Jelly: Once the baked cheese dip is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the melted pepper jelly over the top. Spread it evenly to cover the surface completely.
- Serve: Serve the warm Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip immediately with your choice of crackers, chips, or sliced bread for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
- The pepper jelly can be replaced with any favorite jelly or jam to customize sweetness and spice level.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened completely for easier mixing and a smoother dip texture.
- This dip can be served warm or at room temperature; reheat gently if needed.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pepper jelly cheese dip, baked cheese dip, party appetizer, creamy cheese dip, sweet and spicy dip
