Sweet, creamy, a little spicy and always a hit at gatherings! This easy Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is one of those appetizers everyone loves to gather around, especially during the holidays.
It comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients and no baking. If you love the sweet-and-spicy combo, you will also enjoy our Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Pretzel Bites.
Why You’ll Make This Again
- Sweet and spicy: pepper jelly balances the creamy, savory cheese.
- No baking: just mix, layer and chill.
- Make-ahead friendly: prepare it hours before guests arrive.
- Only a few ingredients: easy to pull together for any party.
- Serves 8: a perfect holiday appetizer.
How This Comes Together
Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then stir in the cheddar, garlic powder and smoked paprika. Spread it in a shallow dish, top with pepper jelly and green onions, and chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavors blend. Serve with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pepper jelly
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Assorted crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Serves: 8
Estimated Nutrition: about 310 calories and 6 g protein per serving.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Beat the cream cheese
Place the softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl and beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the cheddar and seasonings
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Spread in a dish
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a shallow serving dish.
Step 4: Add the pepper jelly
Spoon the pepper jelly over the cheese mixture and gently spread it into an even layer.
Step 5: Top with green onions
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top.
Step 6: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from the refrigerator just before serving. Enjoy with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
How to Serve It
Serve cold with buttery crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzel crisps or fresh veggies like celery and cucumber. Set it out on a holiday appetizer board with nuts and fruit.
Leftovers & Storage
Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving so it is easier to scoop. The dip can be assembled a day ahead.
Make It Even Better: Pro Tips
- Soften the cream cheese: it mixes smoothly with no lumps.
- Use sharp cheddar: it adds more flavor against the sweet jelly.
- Spread the base evenly: every scoop gets plenty of jelly.
- Chill before serving: the flavors blend and the dip firms up.
- Serve with sturdy dippers: thick crackers hold up best.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
- Add crunch: top with chopped pecans or crumbled bacon.
- More heat: sprinkle with finely diced jalapeño.
- Different jelly: try cranberry or pineapple pepper jelly.
- Warm version: bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
Quick Questions
Where do I find pepper jelly?
It is usually near the jams and jellies or the specialty condiments at most grocery stores.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover and refrigerate.
Can I serve it warm?
Yes, bake it at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warm and bubbly.
Can I use light cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture.
What do I serve with it?
Crackers, baguette slices, pretzel crisps and fresh vegetables all work well.
A Dip Everyone Gathers Around
This pepper jelly cheese dip is easy, festive and gone in minutes. Make it for your next gathering and watch the bowl empty.
Enjoy!
— Ava
Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Ingredients
Method
- Place the softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a shallow serving dish.
- Spoon the pepper jelly over the cheese mixture and gently spread it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Remove from the refrigerator just before serving. Enjoy with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
