Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites — pepper jelly bites

I fell in love with these Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites the first time I brought them to a family potluck. My aunt — a born and raised Southern cook — set out a tray of glossy, jewel-like bites and within minutes the platter was nearly empty. They’re the kind of small bite that somehow tastes fancier than the effort required to make them. Growing up, pepper jelly showed up at holiday gatherings and neighborhood socials across the American South, where sweet and spicy preserves are paired with soft cheeses and crackers for an irresistible contrast. This recipe keeps that tradition but shortens the prep so you can have crowd-pleasing flavor in minutes.

Who is this recipe for?

• This recipe is perfect for busy hosts, last-minute entertainers, beginners in the kitchen, and anyone who loves a sweet-spicy appetizer that’s easy to assemble.

Core ingredients overview:

• This simple recipe combines mini phyllo shells, softened cream cheese, and red pepper jelly to make crunchy, creamy, and slightly spicy bites that are ideal for parties or snacks.

Tools & Ingredients

Tools

• Baking sheet — to hold and bake the phyllo shells evenly.
• Mixing bowl — to soften and mix the cream cheese if needed.
• Small spoon or teaspoon — to fill the shells precisely.
• Measuring spoons — to portion jelly and cream cheese consistently.
• Knife or small offset spatula (optional) — to smooth cream cheese if desired.
• Oven mitts — for safe handling when removing the tray from the oven.

Ingredients (with benefits)

• 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells — provide a light, crispy vessel that holds the toppings perfectly.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened — adds a rich, creamy base that balances the jelly’s sweetness.
• 1/4 cup red pepper jelly — brings sweet heat and glossy color, lifting the flavor instantly.
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish) — offer a fresh herbal note and attractive presentation.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the mini phyllo shells in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Place the softened cream cheese in a small bowl and stir briefly to make it easy to spoon.
4. Fill each shell with about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese, gently smoothing it into the shell.
5. Top each filled shell with about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly, letting it sit on the cream cheese.
6. Bake the tray for 5–7 minutes or until the phyllo shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven with care and garnish each bite with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, if using.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

A: Finished assembled bites don’t freeze well because the phyllo will lose its crispness. You can freeze unused mini phyllo shells separately, but assemble and bake just before serving for best texture.

Q: What can I use instead of mini phyllo shells?

A: You can use mini tart shells, cracker rounds, cucumber slices, or endive leaves. Keep in mind baking time will vary if you switch to a non-baked base.

Q: Is red pepper jelly very spicy?

A: Red pepper jelly varies by brand — some are mild and sweet, others have a stronger kick. If you prefer less heat, choose a milder jelly or reduce the amount per bite.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the cream cheese filling in advance and store it chilled, then assemble and bake shortly before serving for best texture. Assembling too far ahead will soften the shells.

Tips & Tricks

• Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 20–30 minutes or microwave in 5–7 second bursts to make spooning easier.
• Use a small scoop or piping bag for faster, neater filling.
• If your phyllo shells feel slightly stale, warm them briefly in the oven (3–4 minutes) before filling to restore crispness.
• For a flavor twist, try a dollop of jalapeño jelly, fig jam, or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans.

Conclusion

If you’d like to see a few other takes and inspiration for pepper jelly and cream cheese bites, check out this easy version from Delish: Easy Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites Recipe – How to Make …. For another home-cook perspective with helpful notes, visit Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Bites – Cooks Well With Others. You can also compare different phyllo cup approaches at this collection of appetizers: Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Phyllo Cups – Best Appetizers.

Enjoy these quick bites and feel free to share them at your next gathering