Description
This Cream Cheese & Red Pepper Jelly Appetizer is a simple yet flavorful party favorite perfect for quick entertaining. A smooth block of cream cheese is topped with sweet and mildly spicy red pepper jelly, creating a delightful combination of creamy and tangy flavors. Serve it chilled with your favorite crackers for an easy, crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, room temperature
- 3 heaping tablespoons red pepper jelly
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature until softened, about 20 minutes, to ensure it’s easy to spread and has the best texture.
- Assemble the Appetizer: Place the softened block of cream cheese on a serving plate. Carefully spoon the red pepper jelly down the middle lengthwise, creating a visually appealing contrast and complementing flavors.
- Serve: Arrange your favorite crackers around the cheese and jelly. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve for the jelly to set slightly.
Notes
- Room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth spreading and enhances flavor.
- Use mild, medium, or hot red pepper jelly depending on your spice preference.
- Pair with a variety of crackers such as water crackers, wheat crackers, or multigrain for added texture.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; allow to come to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cream cheese appetizer, red pepper jelly appetizer, easy party dip, cream cheese and jelly, quick entertaining recipes
