Description
This deliciously easy Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip combines creamy cheddar and cream cheese with a sweet and spicy pepper jelly topping, perfect for any occasion. Baked until hot and bubbly, this savory dip is ideal served warm alongside your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup Pepper Jelly, melted
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Begin by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature; let it soften for about 20 minutes to achieve a smooth texture.
- Combine Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and freshly shredded cheddar cheese thoroughly for an even base.
- Add Seasonings: Add in garlic powder, onion flakes, and a pinch of salt, then blend the mixture until smooth and creamy to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a greased oven-safe dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing the cheese mixture for baking.
- Bake Cheese Mixture: Bake the cheese mixture for about 15 minutes, or until it becomes hot and bubbly, indicating it is perfectly warmed through.
- Melt Pepper Jelly: While the cheese is baking, heat the pepper jelly in the microwave until smooth and pourable for easy topping.
- Add Jelly Topping: Once baked, pour the melted pepper jelly over the hot cheese mixture and spread it evenly to coat the surface completely.
- Serve Warm: Serve the dip warm with dippers such as crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Allow cream cheese to soften properly for a smooth, creamy dip.
- Freshly shredded cheddar cheese blends better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt pepper jelly to avoid overheating.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
- This dip can be made a few hours in advance and reheated before serving.
