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
Scale
- 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