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Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

Warm, creamy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a crowd-favorite appetizer for any occasion. A blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack melts together with tangy pepper jelly for a dip that’s rich, smooth, and a little bit spicy.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Course: Appetizer
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack or mozzerella cheese
  • ¼ cup Mayonnaise or sour cream
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
  • ½ cup Red pepper jelly plus more for topping
  • Chives chopped, for garnish
  • Crackers, crostini, or baguette slice for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Small baking dish about 8x8 or similar
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (around 8x8" or similar).
  2. Mix the base:
    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended and creamy.
  3. Add the pepper jelly:
    Gently fold in ½ cup of pepper jelly so it’s swirled through the cheese mixture. You can fully mix it in if you want a uniform flavor or leave streaks for that sweet-spicy surprise in each bite.
  4. Bake:
    Spread the mixture evenly into the baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden around the edges.
  5. Top and serve:
    Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
    Spoon a couple tablespoons of extra pepper jelly over the top for a glossy finish.
    Sprinkle with chives if desired.
  6. Enjoy warm!
    Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices.