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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the appetizer bites.
- Arrange Phyllo Shells: Place the 15 mini phyllo shells evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they sit upright to hold the filling securely.
- Fill with Cream Cheese: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each phyllo shell, distributing it evenly to create a creamy base.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
