Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe

Introduction

This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe is a simple yet impressive treat perfect for any gathering. Combining creamy, tangy cream cheese with sweet and spicy red pepper jelly creates a delightful flavor contrast in a crisp mini phyllo shell. Ready in minutes, it’s an easy appetizer to please your guests.

Ingredients

• 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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Arrange the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
3. Step 3: Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese.
4. Step 4: Top each filled shell with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
5. Step 5: Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the shells turn crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
6. Step 6: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, if desired.
7. Step 7: Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Use flavored cream cheeses like garlic and herb for an extra savory touch.
• Swap thyme for fresh basil or cilantro to change the garnish profile.
• For a spicier bite, try a hot pepper jelly or add a small slice of jalapeño.
• Mini phyllo shells can be found in the frozen section of most grocery stores—allow them to thaw before filling.

Storage

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes to crisp the shells again before serving. These are best enjoyed fresh but can be served cold if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

You can assemble the bites ahead and refrigerate them without baking. When ready to serve, bake as instructed. However, baking too far in advance may cause the shells to lose their crispness.

What can I use if I don’t have mini phyllo shells?

Mini tart shells or small wonton wrappers can work as substitutes. Just adjust the baking time to ensure they become crisp but do not burn.

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

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This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy and sweet-spicy flavors presented in crisp mini phyllo shells. Ideal for parties or casual gatherings, these bite-sized appetizers are simple to prepare and bake quickly to serve warm or at room temperature with an optional fresh herb garnish.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 15 appetizer bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the mini phyllo shells.
2. Arrange Phyllo Shells: Place the mini phyllo shells evenly spaced on a baking sheet, ensuring they have room to crisp up during baking.
3. Fill with Cream Cheese: Using a teaspoon, fill each phyllo shell with about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese, spreading evenly within the shell.
4. Add Red Pepper Jelly: Dollop about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese in each shell to add a sweet and spicy contrast.
5. Bake: Bake the assembled bites in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the phyllo shells become crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish each bite with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion for a burst of fresh flavor and color. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make filling easier and more uniform.
• You can prepare these bites ahead and bake just before serving to keep shells crisp.
• Substitute fresh herbs like basil or chives if preferred for garnish.
• For a milder spice level, adjust the amount of red pepper jelly used or choose a milder jelly variant.
• Serve immediately after baking for best texture or keep at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving.

Keywords: pepper jelly appetizer, cream cheese phyllo bites, party appetizers, easy finger foods, holiday appetizer