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Baked Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Spread


  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Looking for an effortless crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory? This Baked Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Spread is your go-to appetizer for holidays, game day, or any time you need a warm, flavorful bite to share. The combination of melty cheddar and cream cheese, zesty green onions, and the irresistible sweetness of pepper jelly makes this baked dip downright addictive. Add some chopped pecans for crunch, and you’ve got a standout starter that comes together in under 40 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red or green)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • Crackers or baguette slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe serving bowl.
  2. Combine the base: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, pepper jelly, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until creamy and well incorporated.
  3. Transfer and smooth the mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
  4. Top with pecans, if using, for that irresistible crunchy finish.
  5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving just enough so it’s not too hot to dip!
  7. Serve warm with crackers or toasted baguette slices. Get ready for compliments!

Notes

  1. Softening the cream cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make mixing a breeze.
  2. Shredding matters: For the best melt and flavor, shred your cheddar cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded.
  3. Bakeware size: A small 1-quart baking dish or 6–8″ round dish works perfectly. If doubling the recipe, use a larger dish and add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approx. 1/8 of recipe
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 9 g (depends on jelly used)
  • Sodium: 360 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg

Keywords: cream cheese dip, pepper jelly appetizer, baked cheese spread, easy holiday appetizer, sweet and savory spread