Name: Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup red pepper jelly; Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites recipe is perfect for busy hosts who want a tasty, elegant appetizer with minimal effort. Combining creamy cheese, sweet and spicy pepper jelly, and crispy phyllo shells, these bites are sure to impress at any gathering.

The image shows five small tartlets arranged on a white plate with a subtle embossed rim, placed on a white marbled surface. Each tartlet has three layers: the bottom layer is a golden, flaky, crispy phyllo pastry forming delicate, ruffled edges. The middle layer is a creamy white cheese, slightly textured with a soft appearance. The top layer is a glossy, deep amber-red dollop of jelly or jam, giving a shiny and sticky look, garnished with tiny green herb sprigs on each tartlet for a fresh touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup red pepper jelly
Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Arrange the mini phyllo shells evenly on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each shell.
Step 4: Add approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese in each shell.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, if desired.
Step 7: Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor twist, try using peach or jalapeño jelly instead of red pepper jelly.
If you can’t find mini phyllo shells, small wonton wrappers or tartlet shells work well as substitutes.
Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature to make it easier to spoon into the shells.
Garnishing with chopped walnuts or pecans adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best served warm, so reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the phyllo shells crispy.

How to Serve

The image shows four crispy, golden-brown phyllo pastry cups, each with delicate, flaky layers forming a ruffled edge. Inside each cup is a smooth, white creamy cheese layer topped with a shiny, amber-red jelly that has a slightly translucent, glossy texture. A small sprig of fresh green herb decorates the jelly on each cup, adding a touch of color contrast. The pastries are arranged on a white plate with a gold rim, placed on a white marbled surface with a few fresh green mint leaves scattered around for garnish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the phyllo shells with cream cheese and pepper jelly and refrigerate them uncovered for up to an hour before baking. Baking right before serving keeps the shells crisp.

Can I use regular cream cheese or does it have to be softened?

Softened cream cheese spreads more easily and fills the shells neatly, but you can soften regular cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.