The Crowd-Pleasing Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip (Print Version)
Baked dip made with softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and pepper jelly, topped with fresh green onions, served warm.
# Ingredients:
→ For the Dip Base
01 -
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 -
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 -
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for subtle smoky flavor)
05 -
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
→ For the Topping
06 -
1 (10 oz) jar pepper jelly (medium heat level recommended)
07 -
1/2 cup green onions, chopped and divided
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a shallow 9-inch pie plate or a similar ceramic baking dish.
02 -
Gently warm the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second bursts until it loosens up and becomes pourable. Be careful not to make it too hot. Set aside.
03 -
In your pie dish, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and kosher salt. Use a spatula to mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
04 -
Stir half of the chopped green onions (1/4 cup) into the cream cheese mixture. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
05 -
Pour the loosened pepper jelly over the cream cheese layer. Use the back of a spoon to spread it gently, covering the entire surface.
06 -
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. The dip is ready when it's heated through and you see small bubbles forming around the edges of the dish.
07 -
Top with the remaining 1/4 cup of fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm and gooey with your favorite crackers, toasts, or fresh vegetables.
# Notes:
01 -
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature - this helps it mix smoothly and bakes evenly.
02 -
Warming the pepper jelly makes it pourable without heating it too much, which could affect the consistency.
03 -
Sharp cheddar has more flavor than mild - it really shines in this dip!
04 -
The sweet pepper jelly combined with the creamy, savory cheese creates the perfect harmony of flavors.
05 -
Don't overbake or the dip can become too thick and lose its gooey texture.
06 -
Keep warm in a slow cooker on low setting to maintain the perfect temperature for serving.