Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are a delightful appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavours. These little bites are not only easy to prepare but they also impress your guests with their vibrant colours and delicious taste. Whether for a festive gathering or a casual get-together, these tasty treats are sure to be a hit at any occasion.
What You’ll Need for Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
To whip up these delightful cream cheese cups, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened (226 g)
- ½ cup cranberry hot pepper jelly (120 ml)
- 1 package (12 count) mini phyllo cups
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (15 g)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
Creating these delicious cups is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to serve the cups warm.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each mini phyllo cup evenly with the cream cheese mixture.
- Top each filled cup with 1 teaspoon of cranberry hot pepper jelly.
- Sprinkle fresh chives on top of the jelly for an added burst of colour and flavour.
- If you wish, warm the cups in the oven for about 5–7 minutes.
- Serve immediately, whether warm or chilled, and enjoy!
How to Serve Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
These cream cheese cups look fantastic when served on a pretty platter. You can arrange them in a circle or neatly line them up for a stylish presentation. Pair them with some cocktails or sparkling water for an extra refreshing touch. If you want to give your guests more variety, consider serving alongside a selection of crackers or sliced baguette.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fill the cups.
- Add More Spice: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mix if you like an extra kick.
- Garnish: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill for a unique flavour twist.
Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works fine and will still give a creamy texture to your cups.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They’re delicious cold as well!
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare them a few hours ahead and just pop them in the oven before serving or enjoy them chilled.
Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are a perfect blend of flavours that everyone will love. They’re easy to make, and their eye-catching appeal will surely impress your guests. So, why not give this delightful recipe a try? Enjoy!