If you’re searching for the ultimate party snack that’s equal parts elegant and easy, Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are your new go-to favorite. Imagine the flaky crispness of golden puff pastry wrapped around a cool, creamy cloud of cream cheese, then crowned with a jewel-bright dollop of sweet and spicy pepper jelly. Just a hint of chives and a drizzle of honey finish these bites to perfection. With minimal prep and maximum payoff, these appetizer gems disappear in seconds and earn rave reviews every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients to create these irresistible Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites, but each one plays a starring role. From the buttery layers of puff pastry to the vibrant zing of pepper jelly, every bite bursts with flavor, creamy texture, and gorgeous color.
- Puff pastry sheet (thawed): This is your shortcut to flaky, golden layers without any fuss—store-bought works beautifully!
- Cream cheese (softened): Use full-fat for the richest, creamiest filling that contrasts perfectly with the crisp pastry.
- Pepper jelly (red or green): Choose your favorite variety, whether you love a hint of heat or just crave that sweet and tangy kick.
- Fresh chives (finely chopped): A hit of fresh green adds color and a gentle oniony bite that ties everything together.
- Honey (optional): Drizzling honey lends a delicate sweetness that’s especially delicious with spicy jelly.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Brushing with beaten egg creates that magazine-worthy golden shine on your pastry crusts.
How to Make Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—less cleanup, more fun. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your puff pastry sheet just a little, so you can cut it into 12 even squares. This gives you perfectly bite-sized cups that bake up crisp and delicate.
Step 2: Assemble the Pastry Cups
Grab your mini muffin tin and press each puff pastry square down into a well, making sure the edges come up the sides to form a little cup. This shape holds all the creamy and spicy goodness, and the corners toast up beautifully for extra crunch.
Step 3: Fill with Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly
Drop about one teaspoon of softened cream cheese into the bottom of each pastry cup, followed by a generous teaspoon of your chosen pepper jelly. Don’t be afraid to use extra if you love things sticky and gooey—it’s really all about that sweet-tangy bite in every mouthful.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
For that bakery-fresh glow, brush the exposed pastry edges with your beaten egg. This simple step results in a golden, glossy crust that looks (and tastes) like it came from a fancy bakeshop. Slide the tin into your preheated oven.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden. The cream cheese will be slightly melted and the pepper jelly bubbling with anticipation. Remove from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes so you don’t burn your fingers—if you can resist!
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once cooled slightly, drizzle each bite with honey if desired, and sprinkle with the finely chopped chives. Not only do these add a pop of color, but they also balance out the flavors perfectly. Now, try not to eat them all before your guests arrive!
How to Serve Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites
Garnishes
Garnishing these bites is where you can let your creativity shine. Besides chopped chives and honey, try a light dusting of cracked black pepper or an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra-savory finish. A few thinly sliced fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) also add sophistication and fragrance to your Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites.
Side Dishes
These bites happily share a table with a fresh fruit platter, crunchy crudités, or a vibrant salad with citrus vinaigrette to keep things light. For heartier spreads, pair them with spiced nuts, roasted vegetables, or even a charcuterie board for the ultimate party feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t just plop these on a plate—try arranging them on a rustic wooden board with sprigs of herbs, or serve in colorful cupcake liners for a playful touch. For holiday gatherings, alternate between red and green pepper jelly to match the festivities. Stack them on tiered stands for an elegant buffet, or even pack them up in pretty boxes as crave-worthy gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If (and that’s a big if!) you have any Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 days, making them a convenient snack or addition to your lunchbox the next day.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these bites! Place the fully assembled but unbaked bites in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for warm, freshly baked bites anytime.
Reheating
To recapture their crispy, gooey glory, reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to make the pastry soggy. The oven brings back that just-baked magic!
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of jelly or preserve?
Absolutely! While pepper jelly provides the sweet-spicy combo that gives Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites their signature kick, any fruit preserve or chutney works. Try apricot, fig, or even cranberry preserves for a fun twist.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Definitely. Just swap the standard puff pastry for your favorite gluten-free puff pastry (many stores now carry excellent options). The rest of the ingredients should already be gluten-free, but always check your labels to be sure.
What’s the best way to transport these to a party?
Once cooled, pack the bites in a sturdy, shallow container lined with parchment or wax paper. If you’re adding drizzled honey or extra chives, save them for just before serving to keep the bites looking and tasting their freshest.
Can I make Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites in advance?
Yes! Assemble the bites and store them covered, unbaked, in the fridge for up to 8 hours. When you’re ready, bake them fresh so the pastry is puffed and flaky—the aroma alone is worth it.
Do I have to use a mini muffin tin?
A mini muffin tin gives the bites their perfect little cup shape, but you can also use phyllo shells or even shape small squares on a baking sheet if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on them so they bake evenly.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, needing a last-minute appetizer, or just want a treat that wows your senses, Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are always the answer. There’s something magical about the combination of creamy, sweet, spicy, and buttery in each bite. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and get ready to watch these disappear—these bites are too good to miss!
Print
Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in a delightful puff pastry cup. Easy to make and impressive to serve, they are ideal for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Pepper Jelly Topping:
- 1/4 cup red or green pepper jelly
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly and cut into 12 equal squares. Place each square into a mini muffin tin, pressing gently to form a small cup.
- Add fillings: Add about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese to each pastry cup. Top with 1 teaspoon of pepper jelly.
- Egg wash: Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with honey if desired and sprinkle with chopped chives before serving warm.
Notes
- You can use any variety of pepper jelly, from sweet to extra spicy.
- For a shortcut, use phyllo cups instead of puff pastry.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven.
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