Description
Creamy pepper jelly cheese dip blends tangy and sweet flavors into an irresistible party starter. Guests will devour this simple, elegant appetizer that brings bold Southern charm to any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheese Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces (113 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Finishing Ingredient:
- 7 ounces (198 grams) pepper jelly
Instructions
- Prepare the oven to 350°F (or 325°F for air fryer), allowing cream cheese to reach room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Blend softened cream cheese with cheddar, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt in a mixing bowl, stirring until the mixture achieves a uniform, velvety consistency.
- Carefully transfer the cheese blend into an oven-safe dish, ensuring an even distribution that creates a consistent layer.
- Position the dish in the preheated oven, baking for approximately 15 minutes (or 12 minutes in an air fryer) until the edges turn golden and the cheese begins to bubble dramatically.
- During baking, gently heat pepper jelly in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to maintain a smooth, pourable texture without overheating.
- Remove the cheese mixture from the oven and immediately drizzle the warmed pepper jelly across the surface, using a spatula to create an even glaze.
- Present the dip immediately while hot, accompanied by crisp crackers, toasted crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer experience.
Notes
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest texture without lumps.
- Adjust pepper jelly heat level by choosing mild or spicy varieties to match your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Make this dip ahead of time by preparing the cheese mixture and refrigerating, then bake just before serving for maximum convenience and fresh-from-the-oven appeal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg