If you’re looking for a creamy, spicy, and savory appetizer that’s guaranteed to wow your guests, Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is the answer! With layers of melted cheeses topped with sweet and spicy pepper jelly, this dish is a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s game night, a holiday party, or simply a snack to indulge in at home, this dip is quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible.
The first time I made this, I was hosting a holiday party and needed a last-minute appetizer. This recipe saved the day! It was the first dish to disappear, and I still get requests to make it every year.
Why Our Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Is the Best
Our Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip stands out because it blends the creamy, savory goodness of cheese with the sweet heat of pepper jelly. The combination of flavors is perfectly balanced, and its simple preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile—you can pair it with crackers, chips, or even veggies!
Ingredients Notes for Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Every ingredient in this recipe adds something special to the final dish:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The creamy base that makes the dip rich and luscious.
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Adds bold, tangy flavor and a melty texture.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth of the dip.
- 1 teaspoon onion flakes: Adds a mild, aromatic flavor to the mix.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the cheesiness.
- 7 ounces pepper jelly: The sweet and spicy topping that takes this dip to the next level. Use your favorite pepper jelly—mild or extra hot, depending on your heat preference!
Kitchen Tools Needed for Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven-safe dish or pie pan
- Microwave-safe container (for melting the jelly)
How to Make Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dip will bake evenly and come out perfectly melty and bubbling.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
3. Bake the Dip
Transfer the cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish or pie pan. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
4. Melt the Pepper Jelly
While the dip bakes, place the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe container. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it’s fully melted and smooth.
5. Add the Jelly Topping
Once the cheese dip is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the melted pepper jelly over the top. Spread it evenly using a spoon or spatula to ensure every bite is covered with that sweet and spicy goodness.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the dip warm with your choice of crackers, chips, sliced bread, or even fresh vegetables like celery or carrot sticks.
How to Store Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
- In the fridge: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or bake it in the oven until warmed through.
- In the freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dip (before adding the jelly topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat, and top with jelly before serving.
Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Variations
- Spicy Jalapeño Version: Add 1 tablespoon of diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Sweet & Tangy Combo: Mix 1 tablespoon of honey with the pepper jelly for a sweeter topping.
- Three-Cheese Blend: Replace half of the cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a creamier, melty texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the pepper jelly for a fruit-based jelly, such as apricot or raspberry, for a mild flavor.
- Bacon Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon on top of the cheese mixture before baking for a smoky, savory addition.
What to Serve With Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
This dip pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers:
- Crackers: Buttery crackers or crispy flatbreads work well to scoop up the creamy dip.
- Bread: Slices of warm baguette or toasted sourdough add a rustic touch.
- Veggies: Serve with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a lighter option.
- Chips: Tortilla chips or pita chips add a salty crunch that contrasts with the sweet jelly.
For a creative presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a few extra onion flakes.
Top Tips for Perfect Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture, so shred your own cheddar for a smoother dip.
- Use quality pepper jelly: The jelly is the star of this recipe, so choose one with a flavor profile you love.
- Serve warm: This dip tastes best when served warm, as the cheese is gooey and the jelly is melty.
Helpful Notes
- For a thicker dip, double the cream cheese and cheddar cheese while keeping the same amount of jelly.
- If you don’t have onion flakes, substitute with ½ teaspoon of onion powder.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better consistency.
- Ree Drummond: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Martha Stewart: Use a shallow baking dish to ensure the dip heats evenly and the jelly spreads beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different type of jelly?
A: Yes! Apricot, raspberry, or even fig jelly works well if you want a milder flavor.
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the cheese mixture and refrigerate it in the baking dish. When ready to serve, bake and top with freshly melted jelly.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Use a hot pepper jelly or add diced jalapeños or red chili flakes to the cheese mixture.
Q: Can I serve this cold?
A: While it’s best served warm, you can enjoy this dip cold if you prefer a firmer texture.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Microwave the dip in 30-second intervals or bake in a 350°F oven until heated through.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes
Make this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet—truly a crowd-pleaser!
Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Ingredients
- – 8 oz cream cheese softened
- – 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- – 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp onion flakes
- – 1/2 tsp salt
- – 7 oz pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish or pie pan, smoothing the surface. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Melt the Pepper Jelly: While the dip bakes, melt the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe container. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth.
- Top with Jelly: After baking, pour the melted pepper jelly over the hot cheese dip, spreading it evenly across the top.
- Serve: Serve the dip warm with crackers, chips, or sliced bread. Enjoy!
Notes
– Serve the dip with sturdy crackers or toasted baguette slices for easy dipping.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.