Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe

Irresistible Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe – Crowd Pleaser

Pepper jelly crafts ordinary cheese dips into something extraordinary, infusing bold flavors that dance across your palate.

Creamy and vibrant, this recipe promises a delightful twist on classic appetizer fare.

Tangy cheese blends seamlessly with sweet and spicy pepper jelly, creating a harmonious flavor profile that tingles your taste buds.

Elegant yet approachable, this dip works perfectly for intimate gatherings or casual game nights.

Each bite offers a complex combination of smooth textures and zesty undertones that will surprise and delight you.

The magic happens when simple ingredients merge into a sensational spread that elevates any snacking experience.

Guests will be intrigued by the unexpected combination of rich cheese and bright, fiery jelly.

Ingredients in Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

Main Ingredients:

Cheese: – Cream Cheese, Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Creamy base that provides rich, tangy flavor and smooth texture for the dip.

Pepper Jelly: – Red Pepper Jelly: Sweet and spicy topping that adds vibrant color and zesty kick to the cheese dip.

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

Herbs and Spices: – Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Subtle aromatics that boost the overall depth of flavor in the cheese mixture.

Salt and Pepper: – Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the taste of the cheese dip.

Additional Ingredients:

Binding Components: – Sour Cream, Mayonnaise: Ingredients that help create a smooth, creamy consistency and add richness to the dip.

Instructions for Making Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

Step 1: Prepare Air Fryer Container

Select an air fryer-safe dish that will fit comfortably inside your air fryer basket. Ensure the container is clean and dry.

Step 2: Transfer Cheese Dip

Carefully transfer the prepared cheese dip into the selected air fryer container, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Set Air Fryer Temperature

Preheat the air fryer to 325°F, creating the perfect warming environment for your dip.

Step 4: Cook Cheese Dip

Place the container in the air fryer basket and cook for 12 minutes, allowing the dip to heat thoroughly and become wonderfully warm.

Step 5: Prepare Pepper Jelly

While the dip is cooking, warm the pepper jelly until it becomes smooth and easily pourable.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the cheese dip is heated, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Drizzle the warm pepper jelly over the top, spreading it evenly to create a delicious sweet and spicy topping.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with crackers, chips, or toasted bread.

Tips for a Perfect Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

  • Chill Cream Cheese First: Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • Choose Quality Jelly: Select a pepper jelly with balanced heat and sweetness for maximum flavor complexity.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Watch the dip closely in the air fryer to prevent burning or separating of cheese mixture.
  • Stir Gently: Fold ingredients carefully to maintain a creamy consistency without breaking down the cheese.
  • Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dip while warm for the best melted texture and most vibrant pepper jelly flavors.

Storing and Reheating Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

  • Refrigeration: Store the leftover pepper jelly cheese dip in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture and preserve the dip's creamy texture.
  • Reheating in Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish. Warm for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and maintain its smooth consistency.
  • Microwave Option: For quick reheating, place the dip in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of milk if the dip seems too thick, helping restore its original creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

  • Burst of Sweet-Spicy Flavor: This dip combines creamy cheese with zesty pepper jelly, creating a mouthwatering blend that tingles your taste buds with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
  • Effortless Gourmet Appetizer: Using an air fryer makes this recipe incredibly simple, transforming basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy appetizer in just 12 minutes with minimal prep work.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: Serve this dip at game days, movie nights, or casual gatherings – it's a crowd-pleasing starter that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor impact for all types of social events.
  • Quick Crowd-Warming Treat: The warm, melted cheese topped with glossy pepper jelly creates an inviting dish that looks impressive and tastes even better, making it an instant conversation starter at any get-together.

Serving Ideas for Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

  • Spark Wine Pairing: Crisp sauvignon blanc cuts through the rich, creamy cheese while complementing the spicy pepper jelly, creating a zesty flavor explosion.
  • Craft Beer Companion: Select a hoppy IPA with citrus notes to balance the dip's creamy texture and enhance the peppery kick, making each bite more exciting.
  • Rustic Bread Dippers: Serve with toasted sourdough or crusty baguette slices to provide a crunchy contrast to the smooth, warm cheese and tangy pepper jelly.
  • Fresh Veggie Sidekick: Arrange crisp cucumber rounds, bell pepper strips, and celery sticks alongside the dip for a fresh, light counterpoint to the rich, spicy appetizer.

Fun Twists on Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

  • Smoky Chipotle Kick: Replace pepper jelly with chipotle pepper sauce for a spicy, smoky flavor that adds depth to the creamy cheese base.
  • Mediterranean Herb Blend: Mix in dried oregano, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes before air frying to create a Mediterranean-inspired cheese dip with vibrant herb notes.
  • Caramelized Onion Fusion: Sauté diced onions until golden brown and fold them into the cheese mixture for a rich, sweet undertone that complements the creamy texture.
  • Jalapeño Bacon Crunch: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits and finely chopped fresh jalapeños on top of the melted cheese dip for an extra layer of crunch and heat.
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Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe

Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip Recipe


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4.5 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Pepper jelly cheese dip brings Southern charm to appetizer tables with its creamy, tangy blend. Spicy-sweet jelly swirled through smooth cream cheese creates an irresistible spread perfect for crackers or fresh vegetables.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) sharp cheddar, shredded
  • 7 ounces (198 grams) pepper jelly

Seasonings:

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion flakes
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare a suitable air fryer-safe container by ensuring it fits comfortably inside the air fryer basket without touching the sides.
  2. Transfer the cheese dip mixture into the prepared container, smoothing the surface evenly to promote consistent heating.
  3. Set the air fryer temperature to 325°F (163°C) and carefully place the container inside the basket.
  4. Cook the cheese dip for approximately 12 minutes, monitoring to ensure it becomes thoroughly heated and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
  5. While the dip is cooking, gently warm the pepper jelly in a separate microwave-safe dish or small saucepan until it becomes slightly liquefied and easily spreadable.
  6. After the cooking time elapses, use heat-resistant oven mitts to carefully remove the cheese dip from the air fryer.
  7. Immediately drizzle the warmed pepper jelly over the top of the hot cheese dip, using a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly across the surface.
  8. Allow the dip to rest for 1-2 minutes to let the pepper jelly meld with the warm cheese mixture before serving.

Notes

  • Serve this creamy dip warm for the best flavor and texture.
  • Use a heat-safe ceramic or glass container that fits comfortably in your air fryer.
  • Check the cheese dip midway through cooking to prevent overcooking or burning.
  • Select a high-quality pepper jelly with balanced sweet and spicy notes for maximum impact.
  • Allow the dip to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to help it set and become more manageable.
  • Pair with crispy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 248 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 285 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 0.2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

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