This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a tasty blend of creamy cheese and sweet-spicy pepper jelly. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, it’s sure to impress your guests!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness paired with a hint of sweetness? I always serve it with crunchy crackers or veggies—super easy and fun to snack on while chatting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base for this dip! Make sure it’s softened to make mixing easier. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese instead.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives the dip a strong flavor. If you prefer milder cheese, try using mild cheddar or even gouda for a different twist.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This is optional, but it adds creaminess. You might swap it for pepper jack for added spice or just use more cheddar if you’re out of it.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh rosemary and chives as they really enhance the flavor. If you only have dried herbs, use 1/3 of the amount and adjust to your taste.
Pepper Jelly: I recommend red pepper jelly for its sweetness and spice combination. If you can’t find it, you could use a sweet chili sauce as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that perfect, creamy texture is all about the mixing and baking process. Here’s how to ensure it turns out just right:
- Start with room temperature cream cheese; it mixes better with other ingredients.
- Combine all the cheese and spices well in a mixing bowl, making sure there are no lumps.
- Bake until it’s just bubbly and lightly browned. Don’t rush this step, as it helps develop the flavors.
- After baking, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the dip firm up slightly, making it easier to scoop with your crackers.
Enjoy making this easy and flavorful Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip!
How to Make The Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup pepper jelly (red pepper jelly recommended)
- Crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dip takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential to ensure that your dip bakes evenly and becomes deliciously bubbly.
2. Mix the Cheese and Herbs:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese (if you’re using it), chopped rosemary, chopped chives, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, and the colors are blended nicely.
3. Prepare for Baking:
Take a baking dish that’s oven-safe and transfer the cheese mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
4. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and lightly browned on top. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t over-bake!
5. Add the Pepper Jelly:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. It will be hot, so watch out! Carefully spread the pepper jelly over the top of the warm cheese mixture so it melts in and adds a sweet-spicy touch.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top off your dip with some extra chopped chives for a nice pop of color. Now grab your favorite crackers and serve them alongside for dipping. Enjoy warm and watch it disappear!
Enjoy your delicious Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Dip?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works perfectly fine in this recipe. It will still provide a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly less rich compared to regular cream cheese.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
Definitely! If you like a little extra heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or using spicy pepper jelly instead of the regular kind. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture before baking.
What Are Some Good Dippers Besides Crackers?
While crackers are a classic choice, you can also serve this dip with fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, or bell peppers. Pretzel crisps and pita chips are also delicious alternatives!
