Name: Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup red pepper jelly; Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer is a simple yet delightful bite perfect for any gathering. Crisp phyllo shells filled with creamy cheese and a sweet-spicy pepper jelly make for an irresistible combo that guests will love.

Multiple small, golden-brown baked tart shells are arranged neatly on a metal cooling rack over a white marbled surface. Each tart shell has a soft, white creamy layer inside, topped with a dollop of amber-colored jelly in the center. A woman's hand is placing a spoon with more jelly onto one of the tarts. A small clear glass bowl filled with the same amber jelly sits nearby. The image captures the texture of the flaky tart shells and the shiny jelly by natural light, giving a fresh and appetizing look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup red pepper jelly
Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Arrange the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 3: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each phyllo shell.
Step 4: Top each cream cheese-filled shell with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, if desired.
Step 7: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, use a cream cheese alternative made from nuts or soy.
Try substituting red pepper jelly with fig or apricot preserves for a different sweet note.
Adding a small slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can boost the heat if you like it spicier.
Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-5 minutes to keep the shells crisp, or serve cold if preferred.

How to Serve

The image shows five small tartlets arranged closely on a white plate set on a white marbled surface. Each tartlet has three visible layers: the base layer is a crispy, golden-brown flaky shell with delicate, crinkled edges; the middle layer is a smooth, creamy white filling that looks soft and fluffy; the top layer is a glossy, dark amber-colored jam or jelly piled generously, catching light to appear shiny and sticky. Each tartlet is garnished with a tiny green herb leaf on top, adding a fresh color contrast. A few sprigs of green herbs are scattered around the plate edges as decoration. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

You can assemble the shells with cream cheese and jelly and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking. For the best texture, bake them shortly before serving.

What can I use instead of mini phyllo shells?

If mini phyllo shells are unavailable, you can use small pastry cups, wonton wrappers shaped into cups, or sturdy crackers as alternatives.