Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

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If you’re in need of a last-minute appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress, this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is your answer. It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and has just the right amount of heat to wake up your tastebuds. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply curling up for a cozy movie night, this dip is the kind of easy elegance that people remember.

The magic is in the contrast. The sharpness of cheese, the sweetness of the jelly, and the soft kick of peppers make every bite irresistible. Plus, it takes barely 10 minutes to throw together. Once you try this combination, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for plain cheese dips.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

This dip has all the right things going for it: minimal prep, maximum flavor. It looks gorgeous with that glossy pepper jelly glistening over creamy cheese, and it tastes even better. It’s versatile too—serve it warm and bubbly, or chilled and spreadable with crackers. You can dress it up or keep it rustic, depending on the occasion.

What Kind of Pepper Jelly Should I Use?

You can use any pepper jelly you like, depending on the flavor profile you’re going for. A red pepper jelly brings a nice balance of sweet and heat, while a jalapeño jelly adds a greener, earthier tone. For extra spice, habanero jellies are perfect. Homemade or store-bought, go with one that has a good texture and bold flavor.

Ingredients for the Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

There are only a handful of ingredients, but each one plays an important role in the creamy-spicy harmony that makes this dip sing.

• Cream Cheese
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Pepper Jelly
• Green Onions
• Crackers or Crostini for serving

Cream Cheese is the creamy base that holds everything together. It mellows the spice and gives the dip that signature smooth richness.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese adds a bold and salty kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet jelly.

Pepper Jelly is the star of the show, adding heat and sweetness in every scoop.

Green Onions offer a fresh, mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Crackers or Crostini are the perfect vessels to scoop up every bit of this deliciousness.

How To Make the Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F so it’s ready once your dip is assembled.

Step 2: Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded sharp cheddar. Mix until fully blended and smooth.

Step 3: Spread Into a Dish

Transfer the cheese mixture into a small oven-safe baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges start to bubble and the cheese is melty and hot throughout.

Step 5: Add the Pepper Jelly

Remove from oven and immediately spoon the pepper jelly over the top. Let it melt and spread naturally over the dip.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm with crackers or crostini.

How to Serve and Store Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

This dip is best served warm right out of the oven, when the cheeses are gooey and the jelly is cascading down the sides. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. It feeds about 6 people as an appetizer.

What to Serve With Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip?

Buttery Ritz Crackers

Their salty, tender crunch balances the sweet heat perfectly.

Crostini

Thinly sliced and toasted baguette gives the dip a rustic feel.

Celery Sticks

For a lighter, fresh option, celery brings a crisp coolness.

Mini Pretzels

That chewy saltiness adds fun texture and bite.

Sliced Apples

Sweet and juicy apple slices make a surprisingly delicious combo with pepper jelly and cheese.

Pita Chips

A sturdy option that holds up well under all that melty goodness.

Grilled Sausages

Slice and serve alongside for a savory, meaty addition.

Want More Dip Ideas with a Kick?

If this dip hits all the right notes for you, explore more bold and cheesy flavors:

• Try the Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls for a crunchy, spicy snack.
• You’ll love Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta if you want to turn the heat up.
• These Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup bowls are perfect for cozy nights.
• For a southern twist, try Southern Cornbread Poppers and serve with a dollop of pepper jelly.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold with habanero or keep it mellow with red pepper jelly?

Explore beautifully curated snack boards and quick comfort dishes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and get inspired for your next gathering.

Conclusion

Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is one of those easy crowd-pleasers you can whip up on the fly yet never fails to leave a lasting impression. Creamy, spicy, sweet, and melty, it checks all the boxes for the ultimate party dip. So next time you’re short on time but want to bring big flavor, this one’s a guaranteed win.

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