These Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites are everything a party snack should be — crispy, creamy, sweet, and a little spicy. Made in minutes with mini phyllo shells, cream cheese, and red pepper jelly, they look elegant but couldn’t be easier. Serve them warm from the oven, and watch them vanish before you set the tray down.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites
It’s the perfect last-minute appetizer — festive, flavorful, and fuss-free.
- Takes less than 15 minutes to make
- Sweet heat from pepper jelly pairs perfectly with cream cheese
- No cooking skills required
- Looks fancy but uses simple ingredients
- Easy to customize with herbs or toppings
- Great for parties, brunches, or holidays
When I was a kid, my mom’s food truck always had a bowl of cream cheese topped with pepper jelly. People would spread it on crackers, and it was gone in no time. These phyllo bites are my take on her simple classic — bite-sized, portable, and every bit as addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses only a few ingredients that create the perfect blend of flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients
- 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells – ready to fill and crisp
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – smooth and rich base
- ¼ cup red pepper jelly – brings sweet-spicy contrast
- Fresh thyme or green onions (optional) – for garnish and color
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Use goat cheese for a tangier flavor
- Try jalapeño jelly for extra kick
- Add a pecan half for crunch
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top
- Substitute reduced-fat cream cheese to lighten it
- Add a touch of honey if your jelly is very spicy
Step-by-Step Instructions
These are as easy to make as they are beautiful on the table.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. (Warm phyllo crisps perfectly at this temp.)
- Place phyllo shells on a baking sheet. (Line with parchment for easy cleanup.)
- Fill each shell with 1 teaspoon of cream cheese. (A piping bag makes it tidy.)
- Top with ½ teaspoon of red pepper jelly. (That glossy finish adds instant appeal.)
- Bake for 6–8 minutes until warm and slightly golden. (You’ll smell buttery crispness.)
- Garnish with thyme or green onion. (Adds freshness and a pop of green.)
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overfill the shells — balance is key
- Serve warm or at room temp
- Use softened cream cheese for smooth filling
- Double the batch for parties — they go fast!
Expert Tips for Success
A few small touches make these bites truly irresistible.
- Use good-quality pepper jelly — it’s the star flavor
- Drain excess jelly liquid if it’s runny
- Don’t overbake — phyllo can brown quickly
- Assemble just before baking to keep shells crisp
- Add a dash of lemon zest for brightness
- Serve on a wooden board for a rustic look
- Try mini muffin liners for easy transport
These bites pair beautifully with No-Bake Cranberry Brie Bites and Flavorful Chicken Salad Puffs for a festive holiday appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
These are the kind of appetizers that make any occasion feel special.
- Serve on a tiered stand for parties
- Pair with fresh fruit or cheese platters
- Add to brunch boards with muffins and pastries
- Set beside holiday dips or spreads
- Offer as part of a snack tray with nuts and crackers
- Perfect pairing with Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado
Storing and Reheating
They’re best fresh but can be prepped ahead easily.
How to Store It
- Cool completely before storing
- Keep in an airtight container up to 2 days
- Store unbaked filled shells separately in the fridge
- Avoid freezing jelly-filled ones (the texture changes)
- Refill and bake fresh for best results
How to Reheat It
- Oven: 325°F for 5–6 minutes until warmed through
- Air fryer: 300°F for 3–4 minutes
- Avoid microwave — it softens phyllo
- Add fresh garnish after reheating
Estimated Nutrition (per bite):
Calories: 85 | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 8g | Protein: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Fiber: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can fill the phyllo shells with cream cheese and store them covered in the fridge. Add the jelly and bake right before serving.
What kind of pepper jelly works best?
Red pepper jelly is classic, but you can use green or jalapeño jelly for more kick. Avoid overly sweet varieties — balance is key.
What should I serve with these?
Pair them with Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls for a spicy-sweet contrast guests love.
Final Thoughts
These Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites bring together texture, color, and flavor in one effortless recipe. They’re perfect when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Every bite reminds me of my mom’s kitchen — simple ingredients, good people, and food made from the heart. That’s what Hearty Home Recipes is all about.
- Keep it simple, use quality ingredients
- Serve with pride — presentation matters
- Share it with people you love
Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F to keep phyllo crisp.
- Arrange mini phyllo shells on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Fill each shell with about 1 tsp of softened cream cheese using a spoon or piping bag.
- Top each with ½ tsp of red pepper jelly.
- Bake for 6–8 minutes until warm and slightly golden.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or green onion before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- For variation, goat cheese or jalapeño jelly can be used.
- Cream cheese can be lightened and garnished with pecan, parsley, or cilantro.
- Make-ahead option: fill with cream cheese and refrigerate, adding jelly just before baking.
Tried this recipe?
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