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
Scale
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
