Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
If you love the combination of spicy and cheesy flavors, this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is an absolute winner. It’s creamy, tangy, and has just the right kick from the pepper jelly. Perfect for parties or a cozy snack at home.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 7 ounces pepper jelly
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt. Mix well until fully blended.
- Step 3: Transfer the cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish or pie pan, smoothing the surface evenly.
- Step 4: Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese mixture is melted and bubbling.
- Step 5: While the dip bakes, melt the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe container by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth.
- Step 6: Once baked, pour the melted pepper jelly evenly over the hot cheese dip to finish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving.
- Use a spicy pepper jelly if you prefer a stronger heat.
- Serve with sturdy crackers, sliced baguette, or crunchy vegetables for dipping.
Storage
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm, then add fresh pepper jelly on top before serving again.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and refrigerate it, but it’s best to bake and add the pepper jelly just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of pepper jelly?
If pepper jelly is not available, try using a sweet chili sauce or a fruit preserves mixed with a bit of chili flakes to mimic the sweet-spicy balance.
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Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a deliciously creamy and spicy appetizer perfect for any gathering. A smooth blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar baked to bubbly perfection, topped with sweet and spicy melted pepper jelly for an irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 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: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the dip.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish or pie pan, spreading and smoothing the surface evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted completely and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
- Melt the Pepper Jelly: While the cheese dip is baking, place the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe container. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the jelly is fully melted and smooth, ensuring it will spread easily over the dip.
- Top with Jelly: Once the cheese dip is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the melted pepper jelly over the hot cheese mixture. Spread the jelly evenly over the top to create a glossy, spicy-sweet layer. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Use cream cheese softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Onion flakes can be substituted with finely minced fresh onion if preferred.
- The pepper jelly can be varied for different heat levels (mild, medium, or hot).
- Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pepper jelly, cheese dip, creamy dip, baked cheese dip, appetizer recipe, party dip
