Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Appetizer

Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Appetizer is a quick, no-bake recipe that brings together sweet heat and creamy richness in one irresistible bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, and last-minute gatherings, this appetizer has become a classic because of its bold flavor and effortless preparation.

Background & Origin

The Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese appetizer became popular in the Southern United States, where homemade fruit–pepper preserves have been a staple for decades. As pepper jelly gained commercial availability in the 1980s, home cooks discovered how beautifully it complements the cool, rich creaminess of cheese. Today it’s a beloved, nostalgic appetizer known for its bold colors, simplicity, and playful sweet-spicy flavor.

Why This Appetizer Works

• Extremely quick — ready in 2 minutes.
• Perfect flavor balance — sweet, tangy, spicy, and creamy.
• Beginner-friendly — no cooking skills required.
• Versatile — create endless variations with herbs, nuts, and different jellies.
• Crowd-pleasing — ideal for parties, potlucks, and holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, chilled or softened (your preference)
• ½ cup pepper jelly (red, green, or hot)
• Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or pretzel chips for serving

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped pecans
• Fresh parsley or green onion
• Crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

How to Make It

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the cream cheese on a small serving plate or shallow dish.
2. Spoon the pepper jelly over the cream cheese, allowing it to flow naturally around the sides.
3. Add garnishes if desired: nuts, herbs, or extra spice.
4. Serve immediately with crackers or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tip: If you prefer a smoother dip-style texture, stir the cream cheese and pepper jelly together until combined.

Flavor Variations

• Pineapple Pepper Jelly + Cream Cheese – tropical and lightly sweet.
• Jalapeño Jelly + Whipped Cream Cheese – extra smooth with medium heat.
• Hot Red Pepper Jelly + Goat Cheese – tangy and spicy, perfect for gourmet boards.
• Smoked Pepper Jelly + Cream Cheese – adds deep, smoky notes for BBQ nights.
• Cranberry Pepper Jelly + Cream Cheese – ideal for Thanksgiving or holidays.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Ritz crackers, Triscuits, pita chips, pretzels, or crostini.
• Add it to a charcuterie board with salami, prosciutto, nuts, and fruits.
• Spread inside a turkey or chicken sandwich for a sweet-spicy twist.
• Use as a glaze for chicken wings or grilled shrimp after the party.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 3 days.
• If making ahead, add jelly right before serving to keep it fresh.
• Leftovers can be mixed into a creamy spread and stored airtight.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 2 tbsp)

Component	Amount
Calories	102
Carbohydrates	9g
Protein	1g
Fat	7g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	8g
Sodium	83mg

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