Description
These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Bites are a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy, tangy cream cheese topped with sweet and spicy pepper jelly served on crunchy crackers. Perfect for parties, snacks, or casual gatherings, this no-cook recipe comes together in minutes and can be customized with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 24 crackers (such as Ritz or water crackers)
Toppings
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red or green)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as chopped chives or parsley)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese evenly onto each cracker, creating a smooth layer as the foundation of the bite.
- Add the pepper jelly: Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese layer of each cracker, allowing the sweet and spicy flavors to complement the creamy base.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as chives or parsley over the pepper jelly-topped crackers for an added burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Arrange the prepared bites neatly on a serving platter. Serve immediately for best texture or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve to keep them fresh and cool.
Notes
- This recipe requires no cooking, making it quick and easy to assemble.
- Use softened cream cheese to ensure easy spreading and smooth texture.
- You can substitute the crackers with gluten-free or whole grain options to suit dietary preferences.
- Pepper jelly selection can be adjusted based on desired spice level; try red pepper jelly for a milder taste or green pepper jelly for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Prepare just before serving to maintain cracker crispness.
