Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe

Introduction

This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe combines creamy, spicy, and crispy flavors in one easy-to-make bite. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these phyllo shells deliver a delightful blend of textures and tastes sure to impress your guests.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Arrange the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Step 3: Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese.
4. Step 4: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese in each shell.
5. Step 5: Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish each bite with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion if desired.
7. Step 7: Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading and even heating.
• Swap red pepper jelly with other flavored jellies like fig or apricot for a different twist.
• Try adding a small piece of cooked bacon or a toasted nut for extra texture and flavor.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of pepper jelly or choose a mild variety.

Storage

These bites are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to bring back the crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

You can assemble the bites and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking, but for best crispness, bake them shortly before serving.

Can I use regular-sized phyllo shells instead of mini ones?

Yes, but the baking time might need to be slightly increased, and the bites will be larger, so adjust the amount of filling accordingly.

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 97 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 15 appetizer bites 1x

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Description

A quick and easy appetizer featuring crispy mini phyllo shells filled with creamy cream cheese and sweet-spicy red pepper jelly, finished with a fresh herb garnish. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Appetizer Bites

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the appetizer bites.
2. Arrange Phyllo Shells: Place the 15 mini phyllo shells evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they sit upright to hold the filling securely.
3. Fill with Cream Cheese: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each phyllo shell, distributing it evenly to create a creamy base.
4. Add Red Pepper Jelly: Top each filled shell with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly, adding a sweet and spicy contrast to the cream cheese.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the filled shells for 5–7 minutes, or until the shells turn crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

• For easier filling, soften the cream cheese well beforehand or let it come to room temperature.
• These bites can be prepared ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating, then baking just before serving.
• Try swapping red pepper jelly with other flavored jellies such as apricot or hot pepper for variety.
• If you prefer a milder option, omit the jelly or use less to reduce sweetness and spice.
• Use fresh herbs for garnish to add a pop of color and fresh aroma.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: pepper jelly appetizer, cream cheese bites, phyllo shell appetizers, easy party snacks, sweet and spicy appetizers