Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s equal parts sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy? This Cranberry-Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Sampler Board delivers it all in just 10 minutes! Perfect for holidays, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this festive dish balances tangy cranberry-pepper jelly with smooth cream cheese and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect “wow” addition to your snack spread.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry-pepper jelly
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Assorted crackers or sliced bread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Beat until light and creamy using a hand mixer or spatula.
- Spread evenly: Smooth the cream cheese mixture across a serving platter, cheese board, or shallow dish.
- Add the sweet heat: Spoon the cranberry-pepper jelly over the top and gently spread it out, letting it drip slightly for a rustic look.
- Finish with texture: Sprinkle the chopped chives and walnuts evenly over the jelly for a pop of color and crunch.
- Serve: Pair with your favorite crackers, crostini, or toasted bread. Best served at room temperature for ultimate spreadability.
Variation
- Classic Holiday Style: Add a sprinkle of orange zest and a few fresh cranberry halves for extra festive flair. The citrus note brightens the richness of the cream cheese beautifully.
- Savory & Herb Blend: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the cream cheese for an herby twist that complements the pepper jelly’s subtle heat.
- Go Nutty: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or pistachios for a unique crunch and deeper flavor lightly toast them first for added warmth and aroma.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing this ensures a smooth, lump-free base.
- If your jelly is very thick, microwave it for 10–15 seconds to loosen it up for easier drizzling.
- Prepare up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate; just let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Platter: Serve alongside fresh grapes, apple slices, or pear wedges for a vibrant, fruit-forward presentation.
- Charcuterie Add-On: Pair with sliced prosciutto, salami, or smoked turkey for a savory-sweet balance your guests will love.
- Mini Appetizer Cups: For parties, layer the ingredients into small glass cups or jars for individual servings tidy, beautiful, and fun!
Tips
- Balance the Heat: Cranberry-pepper jelly varies in spice level taste before serving and adjust with a drizzle of honey if it’s too spicy.
- Presentation Matters: Use a wooden board or marble platter to elevate the look color contrast makes this dish shine.
- Leftovers Hack: Spread leftovers on a toasted bagel or sandwich the next day for a sweet and savory breakfast twist.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 160mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought cranberry-pepper jelly?
Absolutely! Use your favorite brand just make sure it’s the right consistency (not too runny or overly thick). - What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Goat cheese or whipped ricotta makes a delicious, slightly tangier alternative. - How far ahead can I make this?
You can prep it up to 24 hours in advance just add the jelly and toppings right before serving for the freshest presentation. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based cream cheese it pairs wonderfully with the cranberry-pepper jelly flavor.
Conclusion
This Cranberry-Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Sampler Board is proof that entertaining doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can create a dish that’s vibrant, delicious, and effortlessly elegant. Sweet, tangy, spicy, and creamy every bite feels like a little celebration. Serve it once, and it’ll become your go-to appetizer all season long.
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Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Sampler Board
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s equal parts sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy? This Cranberry-Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Sampler Board delivers it all in just 10 minutes! Perfect for holidays, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this festive dish balances tangy cranberry-pepper jelly with smooth cream cheese and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect “wow” addition to your snack spread.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry-pepper jelly
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Assorted crackers or sliced bread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Beat until light and creamy using a hand mixer or spatula.
- Spread evenly: Smooth the cream cheese mixture across a serving platter, cheese board, or shallow dish.
- Add the sweet heat: Spoon the cranberry-pepper jelly over the top and gently spread it out, letting it drip slightly for a rustic look.
- Finish with texture: Sprinkle the chopped chives and walnuts evenly over the jelly for a pop of color and crunch.
- Serve: Pair with your favorite crackers, crostini, or toasted bread. Best served at room temperature for ultimate spreadability.
Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing this ensures a smooth, lump-free base.
- If your jelly is very thick, microwave it for 10–15 seconds to loosen it up for easier drizzling.
- Prepare up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate; just let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack Board
- Method: No-Cook / Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: cranberry pepper jelly, cream cheese appetizer, holiday dip, easy party snack, no-bake appetizer