If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s the definition of crowd-pleasing comfort, look no further than this vibrant Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip. This irresistible baked dip layers creamy cheeses under a shimmering blanket of sweet and spicy pepper jelly, making every bite a little party for your taste buds. Whether you’re prepping for a game day, holiday gathering, or just an impromptu snack with friends, this dip brings warmth, color, and a touch of surprise to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be delighted by how just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients can transform into something so spectacular. Each component in this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip brings its own flair, ensuring a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and bold flavors.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz block, softened): The ultimate base for any warm dip, it adds richness and velvety smoothness.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar (1 cup): Bold, tangy cheddar packs cheesy flavor into every bite while giving that beautiful melt.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds just the right amount of tang and keeps the dip luxuriously creamy.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): A hint of garlic enhances all the savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Be sure to taste and tweak—it’s all about balancing those big flavors.
- Pepper Jelly (1/2 cup, red or green): The star of this dip, it offers a dazzling pop of sweetness and a gentle kick.
- Chopped Green Onions (2 tablespoons, optional): These bring freshness and color, making each scoop more lively.
- Crackers or Tortilla Chips (for serving): You need a sturdy vessel to transport all that creamy, zesty goodness!
How to Make Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Step 1: Mix the Cheesy Base
Start by combining the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spoon to blend until the mixture is ultra-smooth and creamy with all the cheeses perfectly melded together.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Choose a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet that allows the dip to be spread about an inch thick. Spread the cheese mixture evenly into the dish, making sure to smooth the top for a tidy finish. This ensures even baking and a pretty presentation.
Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling
Slide the dish into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready for the next step when it’s hot, bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden—your kitchen will smell amazing by now.
Step 4: Top with Pepper Jelly
Carefully remove the hot dish from the oven and spoon the pepper jelly evenly over the entire surface. This is where the Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip starts to get its signature glossy, jewel-toned look. Don’t worry if it slides around—just gently spread to cover.
Step 5: Warm the Jelly
Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. The jelly will melt slightly over the cheese base, creating that gorgeous, sticky-sweet topping that’s the hallmark of this appetizer.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, top with a sprinkle of chopped green onions if you like a burst of freshness and color. Serve the Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip warm alongside a pile of crunchy crackers or tortilla chips, and dive right in!
How to Serve Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Garnishes
Fresh toppings do more than just dress up the dip—they add crunch and zest. A scatter of green onions adds brightness, while a dusting of smoked paprika or extra shredded cheddar can bring both color and smokiness. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives also work wonders here!
Side Dishes
Pairing the hot Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip with a crisp vegetable platter (think celery sticks, bell pepper strips, snap peas) provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to all that creamy richness. It’s also lovely with a charcuterie spread or even nestled next to a bowl of olives and pickles.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra flair, serve your dip in a mini cast-iron skillet for rustic charm, or spoon it into individual ramekins for single-serve party bites. Want that wow factor at your next gathering? Offer both red and green pepper jelly swirled together on top, or arrange your dippers in a festive wreath shape around the baking dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to wind up with extras, let the dip cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip will stay fresh for up to 3 days, retaining its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
Freezing
While you can technically freeze the cheesy base (before baking and adding jelly), the texture after thawing may be slightly more crumbly. For best results, assemble the cheese mixture in advance, freeze if desired, and add the pepper jelly just before baking to preserve the dip’s creamy-smooth consistency.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, scoop the dip into an oven-safe dish and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes or until hot and bubbly. A short zap in the microwave also works for single servings—just go slowly and stir every 30 seconds for even heating.
FAQs
Can I make Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and assemble the cheese base in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate it for up to a day in advance. Just bake as directed and add the pepper jelly topping right before serving for maximum impact.
What’s the best kind of pepper jelly to use?
Both red and green pepper jellies shine in this recipe. Red is a touch sweeter, while green can offer a more herbal or spicy kick. Choose your favorite, or swirl them for a pretty holiday effect!
Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, so just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or tortilla chips if you’re accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I add extra heat?
If you love it spicy, a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper mixed into the cheese base will do the trick. Jalapeño pepper jelly will also raise the heat quotient deliciously.
How can I make this dip more smoky or savory?
Try adding a little smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the cheese mixture before baking. You could also toss in a handful of crumbled, cooked bacon for a savory twist.
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip always gets rave reviews—so don’t be surprised if everyone asks for the recipe! Creamy, bold, and just a little naughty with its sweet-spicy topping, it’s the perfect reason to gather friends and dig in. Give it a try and watch it disappear at your next party or casual get-together.
Print
Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A delectable Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip that combines the creaminess of cream cheese and cheddar with a hint of sweetness and spice from pepper jelly, perfect for any gathering or party.
Ingredients
Cheese Dip:
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1/2 cup red or green pepper jelly
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- Crackers or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Bake: Spread mixture into a baking dish and bake for 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Add topping: Spoon pepper jelly over the hot dip and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
- Garnish: Garnish with green onions and serve warm with crackers or chips.
Notes
- For a smoky kick, add smoked paprika or hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- This dip can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
