Introduction:

These delicious bites combine the crisp, buttery texture of puff pastry with the creamy richness of cream cheese and the sweet-spicy kick of pepper jelly. A quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients:

Cooking spray
1 (14-oz.) package puff pastry, thawed
1 (8-oz.) block cold cream cheese
1/2 cup pepper jelly
Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare Muffin Pans:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 2 (24-cup) mini muffin pans with cooking spray.
Prepare Puff Pastry:
Unroll the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece into a muffin cup in the prepared pans.
Bake the Pastry:
Bake for 12 minutes, or until the puff pastry is lightly golden and puffed. Let it cool slightly.
Assemble the Bites:
Cut the cream cheese into 24 small pieces and gently press one piece into the center of each puff pastry cup. If needed, separate the pastry slightly to create space for the cream cheese. Top each with about 1 heaping teaspoon of pepper jelly.
Finish Baking:
Return the bites to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cream cheese is warmed through.
Garnish and Serve:
Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor and color. Let the bites cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Variations:

Fruit Preserves Alternatives:
If you’re not a fan of pepper jelly, there are several other fruit preserves you can use to achieve a similarly sweet and tangy result. Consider using apricot jam, raspberry preserves, or peach jelly for a unique twist on the flavor. For a bolder kick, you could incorporate mango chutney or spicy pineapple jam, which offer a delicious balance of sweetness and heat that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
Herb Infused Cream Cheese:
Change up the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs to the cream cheese. Chives, dill, or basil could all add a refreshing, aromatic twist. To do this, simply mix finely chopped herbs into the softened cream cheese before adding it to the puff pastry. This variation works particularly well if you’re serving these bites at a spring or summer gathering when fresh herbs are in season.
Spicy Variation:
For those who enjoy a bit more heat, try mixing a small amount of sriracha or hot sauce into the cream cheese or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top of the jelly before baking. You could even add finely diced jalapeños to the pepper jelly for a more intense spicy bite.

Cooking Notes:

Thawing Puff Pastry:
When working with puff pastry, it’s important to thaw it properly to avoid it becoming too sticky or brittle. Leave the pastry out on the counter for about 30 minutes to an hour before working with it, depending on room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the pastry in its packaging for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat it.
Cream Cheese Texture:
Ensure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the pastry cups. Cold cream cheese straight from the fridge can be too firm and may not melt as evenly. Set it out for 20-30 minutes, or microwave it for 10-15 seconds to bring it to room temperature. This will ensure it becomes perfectly creamy and easy to press into the puff pastry cups.
Watch the Baking Time:
Puff pastry can sometimes brown quickly, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the bites while they bake. If you notice the tops of the pastry are browning too fast but the cream cheese isn’t fully melted, you can tent the pan with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and allow the cheese to melt through.

Serving Suggestions:

Ideal for Cocktail Parties:
These bites are perfect for cocktail parties or wine tastings, where guests are looking for something small but flavorful. The bite-sized portions allow guests to sample a variety of appetizers without filling up. Serve them alongside bruschetta, charcuterie boards, or stuffed mushrooms for a sophisticated spread. Their versatility ensures they pair well with many different types of drinks.
Pair with Cheese Platters:
If you’re serving a cheese platter, these Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites make an excellent addition. Their creamy and slightly spicy filling contrasts beautifully with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar, goat cheese, or blue cheese. For a fresh twist, offer a selection of fruits like grapes, figs, or sliced apples that will complement the sweet-spicy jelly.
Brunch Delight:
These savory-sweet bites are ideal for brunches, particularly if you’re serving a variety of egg dishes. They pair well with classic brunch items like scrambled eggs, quiche, or even smoked salmon. You can elevate the brunch experience by garnishing with a few fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a visually appealing touch.

Tips:

Handling Puff Pastry:
When working with puff pastry, be sure not to over-handle it. The more you work it, the less flaky and light it will be. Keep the dough as chilled as possible before cutting it into squares or rounds, as this will ensure maximum puff and flakiness during baking. If it becomes too soft to handle, refrigerate it briefly before continuing.
Use a Spoon for Jelly:
While it’s tempting to pour the jelly straight from the jar, using a spoon to place it onto each pastry bite ensures you get the right amount without making a mess. A heaping teaspoon of jelly is all you need, as too much can make the bites too sweet and cause a mess when baking.
Crispness of the Pastry:
To ensure your puff pastry stays crispy, be sure not to overcrowd the muffin cups. If they’re too packed, the pastry may not have enough room to puff up properly. Also, bake the bites on a rack in the oven (rather than on a baking sheet) if possible, to allow air to circulate around the pastries for even crisping.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Bite):

Calories: 110
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 100mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bites ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be aware that the puff pastry may lose some of its crispiness if stored for too long, so it’s best to bake them as soon as possible for optimal texture.
Can I freeze these bites?
Absolutely! After baking, let the bites cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last up to a month in the freezer. To reheat, simply bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until warm.
Can I use a different type of jelly?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of jelly or preserves. Apricot, raspberry, or even fig jelly would work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so adjust the seasonings or garnishes accordingly to balance the sweetness.
Do I need to use mini muffin pans?
The mini muffin pans give these bites their perfect size, but you can use a regular muffin tin if you don’t have mini pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as larger bites may need a few extra minutes to bake through.

Conclusion:

These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are a deliciously easy and versatile appetizer that strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and spicy. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a more formal event, they’re sure to impress with their elegant appearance and irresistible flavor. The buttery puff pastry, creamy cream cheese, and sweet-spicy pepper jelly combine in every bite to make this dish a crowd favorite. Plus, with simple prep and cook times, they’re perfect for last-minute entertaining. Try them out at your next event, and enjoy the compliments that follow!

Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites

Author: Avery
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 bites 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

Cooking spray
1 (14-oz.) package puff pastry, thawed
1 (8-oz.) block cold cream cheese
1/2 cup pepper jelly
Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Muffin Pans:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 2 (24-cup) mini muffin pans with cooking spray.
Prepare Puff Pastry:
Unroll the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece into a muffin cup in the prepared pans.
Bake the Pastry:
Bake for 12 minutes, or until the puff pastry is lightly golden and puffed. Let it cool slightly.
Assemble the Bites:
Cut the cream cheese into 24 small pieces and gently press one piece into the center of each puff pastry cup. If needed, separate the pastry slightly to create space for the cream cheese. Top each with about 1 heaping teaspoon of pepper jelly.
Finish Baking:
Return the bites to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cream cheese is warmed through.
Garnish and Serve:
Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor and color. Let the bites cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can make these ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for a couple of days. Just reheat before serving.
For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the cream cheese before adding the jelly.
Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary could also be used as an alternative to thyme.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 110
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: puff pastry, cream cheese, pepper jelly, appetizer, easy bites, party food, savory-sweet