Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip

There’s something about a warm, gooey cheese dip that transforms any gathering into a festive celebration. And when it comes to making a dip that stands out from the crowd, this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip recipe is your secret weapon. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but its unique blend of flavors will have your guests coming back for more. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened to embrace the other ingredients warmly.
• 4 ounces of sharp cheddar, shredded, for that irresistible cheese pull.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder, adding a subtle warmth.
• 1 teaspoon onion flakes, for a hint of savory flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt, to enhance the overall taste.
• 7 ounces of pepper jelly, the star that brings a sweet and spicy kick.

Directions:

For Oven Lovers:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F. This is the perfect temperature to get everything melted together without burning.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Prepare for Baking: Spread the cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish or a pie pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Bake to Perfection: Let it bake for about 15 minutes, or until you notice the cheese bubbling and becoming irresistibly melty.
5. Melt the Pepper Jelly: While the cheese dip bakes, melt the pepper jelly in a microwave-safe bowl. Use 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s perfectly smooth.
6. The Grand Finale: Once the cheese dip is bubbly and hot, pull it from the oven. Drizzle the melted pepper jelly over the top, spreading it to cover the cheese dip evenly.

For Air Fryer Enthusiasts:

Don’t have an oven, or prefer to use your air fryer? No problem!

1. Assemble the Dip: Follow the same steps to mix your ingredients and place them in an air fryer-safe container.
2. Air Fryer Settings: Preheat your air fryer and set it to cook at 325°F. It generally takes about 12 minutes to get everything hot and melted.
3. Melt the Jelly: As with the oven method, melt your pepper jelly in the microwave while the cheese dip cooks.
4. Finish with a Drizzle: Once your cheese dip is hot and ready, take it out and smother it with the smooth, melted pepper jelly.

Serving Suggestions:

This Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip serves up to 8 people, making it perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even as a treat for yourself (we won’t judge!). Each serving packs about 143 kcal, striking a nice balance between indulgent and not overly heavy.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re looking to impress your guests, need a quick and delicious appetizer, or simply want to indulge in a cheesy delight, this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a must-try. It’s a versatile recipe that not only promises a burst of flavors but also brings warmth and joy to any table. So, next time you’re pondering what to serve at your gathering, remember this ultimate party starter. Happy cooking!

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