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Easy Baked Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip with Sharp Cheddar

Close-up of a baked pepper jelly cheese dip, golden brown with melted red jelly topping.

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Make this simple, crowd-pleasing Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip. It combines creamy cheese with sweet and spicy pepper jelly for a warm, savory-sweet appetizer perfect for parties or game days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red or mixed)
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cooked, crumbled bacon (optional)
  • Crackers, pretzels, or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small, oven-safe serving dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
  3. Spread the cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  4. Spoon the pepper jelly over the top of the cheese layer. Do not stir it in; you want distinct layers.
  5. If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts or crumbled bacon over the jelly layer.
  6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and slightly bubbly around the edges.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving warm with your choice of dippers.

Notes

  • For a slightly thinner dip, you can mix 1 tablespoon of milk into the cream cheese mixture before spreading.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional cooking methods, consider how this recipe compares to structured meal planning services.
  • Serve immediately while warm for the best texture.

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