Last Christmas Eve, my daughter Emily brought over a jar of homemade red pepper jelly she’d made from her backyard peppers. The color was stunning—deep ruby red with a sparkle that reminded me of holiday ornaments. She asked if we could “do something fun” with it for our family gathering.
I started thinking about the cheese balls my mother used to make every December, the ones that disappeared faster than the cookies. With a little inspiration and a box of mini phyllo shells tucked in the pantry, this recipe was born. I still remember how the kitchen smelled—a mix of toasted pastry, sweet spice, and warm cheese.
My grandchildren circled around the counter, waiting for their turn to “test” one. They loved how the jelly glistened on top, and I loved how quick and elegant they were to serve. Since then, these Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites have become our little holiday jewels—bright, sweet, and gone in a blink.
Short Description
These festive phyllo bites combine creamy cheese, sweet heat from pepper jelly, and a crisp golden shell—perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy family nights.
Key Ingredients
- 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup red pepper jelly
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, for garnish (optional)
Tools Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small spoon or piping bag
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Arrange the Shells
Set the phyllo shells on the baking sheet. They’re ready to go straight from the freezer—no thawing needed.
Step 3: Fill with Cream Cheese
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each shell. The creaminess balances the jelly’s tang and keeps the shells from getting soggy.
Step 4: Add the Jelly
Top each shell with about ½ teaspoon of red pepper jelly. If the jelly is too thick, warm it for a few seconds in the microwave to make it easier to spoon.
Step 5: Bake and Garnish
Bake for 5–7 minutes until the shells are crisp and the cheese is just warmed through. Remove from the oven and top with fresh thyme or green onion for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. They’re just as delightful cooled slightly, especially when the jelly sets into a glossy layer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Elegant but Effortless: Takes minutes to prepare, yet looks like something from a fancy caterer.
Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The pepper jelly adds just the right kick to the smooth, creamy cheese.
Perfect for Gatherings: Easy to make ahead, transport, and serve—ideal for parties or family get-togethers.
Festive Appearance: The bright red jelly and golden shells make a stunning holiday platter.
Versatile Flavor Base: Works beautifully with different toppings, from herbs to candied nuts.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Using cold cream cheese: It won’t spread smoothly. Solution: Let it soften at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Overbaking: The shells can burn quickly. Solution: Check at the 5-minute mark and remove when lightly golden.
Watery jelly: Can make the shells soggy. Solution: Use thicker jelly or briefly chill before topping.
Skipping the garnish: It adds flavor and color. Solution: Even a small sprinkle of thyme elevates presentation.
Crowding the pan: Prevents even crisping. Solution: Leave small gaps between each shell.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Arrange them on a wooden board with crackers, nuts, and fruit for a beautiful appetizer spread.
Pair with sparkling wine, rosé, or a light white like Sauvignon Blanc.
Add them to a holiday brunch table alongside mini quiches or smoked salmon toast.
For casual gatherings, serve warm from the oven with mulled cider or a festive cocktail.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 325°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soft.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble them up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pepper jelly?
Absolutely, it adds a personal touch. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape on the shells.
2. Can I use goat cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes! It gives a tangier flavor that pairs beautifully with the jelly.
3. Are these served hot or cold?
They’re best warm or at room temperature, so the cheese stays creamy.
4. Can I make them in advance for a party?
You can assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before guests arrive.
5. What if I don’t have phyllo shells?
Try using mini tart shells or toasted baguette slices as an alternative.
Tips & Tricks
For an extra festive look, use green pepper jelly or alternate colors.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Use a piping bag for neater, quicker filling.
Warm the jelly slightly before spooning, it’ll glide perfectly.
Serve on a white platter to make the red jelly pop.
Recipe Variations
Savory Twist: Swap pepper jelly for onion jam or tomato chutney, and sprinkle with fresh basil.
Tropical Bite: Use pineapple jelly and garnish with chopped cilantro for a sweet, exotic flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add a small piece of toasted pecan or almond on top of the jelly before baking.
Creamy Blue: Replace half the cream cheese with blue cheese for a bold, tangy flavor.
Herbed Delight: Mix cream cheese with chopped chives or dill before filling the shells.
Final Thoughts
When I served these at our New Year’s open house last winter, my husband stood proudly by the appetizer table, insisting he’d “helped” by taste-testing every batch. Our friends laughed and kept reaching for more, each bite disappearing before I could refill the tray.
It’s funny how something so small can bring so much joy to a room—simple ingredients, a splash of color, and that warm hum of togetherness. These little bites sparkle on the plate and in memory, like every gathering that lingers in the heart long after the dishes are done.
Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip And Bites
Ingredients
- 1 box 15-count mini phyllo shells
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup red pepper jelly
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the phyllo shells directly from the freezer onto the sheet.
- Fill each shell with about a teaspoon of softened cream cheese, then top with ½ teaspoon of red pepper jelly. If the jelly is too thick, warm it briefly in the microwave to loosen.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, until the shells are crisp and the cheese is gently warmed.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme or green onion, and serve warm or at room temperature.
