This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a fun and tasty treat! With creamy cheese and a sweet kick from the pepper jelly, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
I love serving this dip with crackers or veggies. Trust me, once you start dipping, you’ll never want to stop! It always disappears fast, so be ready for more! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. You can use reduced-fat cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version. Neufchâtel cheese is also a great alternative.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For a bold flavor, sharp cheddar is best. If you prefer milder cheese, you can substitute with medium cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack.
Mayonnaise: This adds richness to the dip. If you’re avoiding mayo, Greek yogurt can be a healthy swap, retaining creaminess while adding a bit of tang.
Pepper Jelly: Use your favorite flavor for a personalized touch! If you don’t have pepper jelly, a mix of hot sauce and sugar or a fruit preserve with chili flakes can work too.
Chives: Fresh chives add a nice pop of color and flavor. If they’re not available, green onions are a good substitute. You could even try dried chives in a pinch.
How Do I Get My Dip to Be Perfectly Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that perfect creamy and smooth texture is key for this dip. Here’s how to make sure we nail it:
- Soften the cream cheese first. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Mix the ingredients really well! Use a hand mixer or whisk to combine everything until smooth. If you have lumps, keep at it.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish, ensuring it cooks evenly and achieves that sought-after bubbly top.
How to Make Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red or green, based on preference)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers for serving
Time Needed:
This delicious Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll be looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the dip gets nice and bubbly when it bakes. Meanwhile, take your softened cream cheese out of the fridge so it can be mixed easily.
2. Mix the Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything together until it’s smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste; you want the flavors to pop!
3. Assemble the Dip
Next, transfer the cheese mixture into a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure every bite will be creamy and flavorful.
4. Add the Pepper Jelly
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Spoon the pepper jelly over the top of the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy; spread it out so each scoop gets a little sweetness!
5. Top with Chives
Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the pepper jelly for a lovely pop of color and a hint of oniony flavor. This little touch makes it look extra inviting!
6. Bake the Dip
Place your dip in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until it’s hot and bubbly, with the edges starting to turn a nice golden color.
7. Cool & Serve
Once done, take the dip out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help prevent any burns from that yummy, hot cheese. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers for dipping.
This creamy, spicy-sweet dip is perfect for parties or casual snacking! Enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can definitely use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute! It will still provide a creamy texture, but the flavor may be slightly lighter. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
What Can I Use Instead of Pepper Jelly?
If you don’t have pepper jelly on hand, you can use a mix of sweet fruit preserves (like apricot or peach) combined with a bit of hot sauce for the sweet and spicy effect. Alternatively, a fruit jam sprinkled with red pepper flakes can work too!
How Do I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream or a bit more cheese when reheating to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.