Zesty Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and spicy. This delightful appetizer features buttery crackers or crisp crostini topped with smooth cream cheese and a generous layer of zesty pepper jelly. With contrasting textures and bold flavors, these bites are ideal for entertaining, adding a vibrant burst of flavor to any gathering.
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Key Information:
- Preparation time:
10 minutes
- Cooking time:
None
- Total time:
10 minutes
- Number of servings:
24 bites
- Serving size:
1 bite
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 bite):
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 4g
Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 120g (1/2 cup) pepper jelly
- 24 buttery crackers or crostini (about 100g / 3.5 oz)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (optional, for
garnish)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)
Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the base:
Arrange the crackers or crostini in a single layer on a serving platter.
- Spread the cream cheese: Using a small knife or piping bag, spread about 1
teaspoon of softened cream cheese onto each cracker or crostini.
- Add the pepper jelly:
Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of pepper jelly over the cream cheese layer,
spreading it gently to cover the top.
- Garnish for extra flavor: Sprinkle the bites with fresh chives, toasted sesame
seeds, or a light crack of black pepper, if desired, to add extra flavor
and color.
- Serve immediately:
These bites are best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the
crackers.
Culinary Tips for Success:
- Choose the right crackers: Opt for sturdy, buttery crackers or crostini that can
hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Soften the cream cheese: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature
for easier spreading.
- Balance the flavors:
If the pepper jelly is very spicy, balance it by using a bit more cream cheese
or choosing a milder pepper jelly variety.
- Garnish with flair:
Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness,
or sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Make ahead:
If making ahead, prep all ingredients but wait to assemble just before
serving to keep the crackers from softening.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is pepper jelly?
Pepper jelly is a jelly made from bell peppers and often chili peppers,
offering a combination of sweetness and spice. It's typically used as a
condiment or appetizer topping.
- Can I make these ahead of time? You can prepare the components ahead, but it’s best to
assemble the bites just before serving to prevent the crackers from
getting soggy.
- Can I use different types of crackers or bread? Yes, you can use any sturdy cracker, crostini, or even
mini toast slices for a different texture. Just make sure they are firm
enough to hold the toppings.
- What if I can't find pepper jelly? If pepper jelly is unavailable, you can use a sweet
chili sauce or a spicy fruit preserve like mango chutney for a similar
sweet-and-spicy flavor.
- Are these bites gluten-free? They can be if you use gluten-free crackers or
crostini. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
These Zesty Pepper Jelly & Cream
Cheese Bites offer a delightful blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet in one
irresistible bite. Perfect for casual snacking or a gourmet appetizer, they’re
easy to make yet impressive to serve. Whether you're hosting a party or looking
for a quick snack, these bites are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave
guests craving more!