When those unexpected moments of inspiration strike, it’s amazing what you can create in the kitchen. One afternoon, as I was contemplating what to serve at a gathering, a jar of cranberry hot pepper jelly caught my eye, nestled among my condiments. The vibrant red hue sparked an idea that combined a burst of sweetness with a hint of heat—perfect for tantalizing my guests’ taste buds.
That’s how these Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups came to life. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this delightful appetizer brings a crowd-pleasing experience without the stress. Picture creamy, garlicky goodness encased in crunchy phyllo cups, topped with a luscious layer of jelly and a sprinkle of fresh chives. They’re quick to assemble, and whether served warm or chilled, they are bound to leave an impression. Join me as we whip up this easy yet impressive treat that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering!
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
- These Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up an impressive appetizer in just 15 minutes.
- The combination of creamy, garlicky cream cheese with the sweet and spicy jelly creates an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
- They’re versatile enough to be served warm or chilled, making them perfect for any occasion or season.
- Plus, their vibrant colors and elegant presentation make them visually appealing, ensuring they stand out on your appetizer table.
Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
For the Filling
• Cream cheese – a smooth and creamy base that adds richness to every bite.
• Cranberry hot pepper jelly – provides a unique sweet and spicy flavor balance that truly brightens up the cups.
• Garlic powder – enhances the savory profile of the filling without overpowering the other flavors.
• Salt and pepper – essential for bringing out the richness of the cream cheese and adding a bit of necessary seasoning.
For the Cups
• Mini phyllo cups – these crispy shells provide a delightful crunch and are perfect for holding the filling.
For the Garnish
• Chopped fresh chives – add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
How to Make Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer your cups warm. This step is crucial as it develops a wonderfully toasty flavor in the phyllo cups, making them even more delightful.
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Combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well blended, ensuring it’s packed with flavor.
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Spoon or pipe the cream cheese filling generously into each mini phyllo cup. Don’t be shy—fill them nicely to get that creamy goodness in every bite!
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Top each filled cup with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry hot pepper jelly. Let it drizzle slightly over the edges for that homey, inviting look that’ll tempt your guests.
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Sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. If you’d like, warm these lovely cups in the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes for an extra cozy touch.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful balance of creamy, tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. They’re perfect for sharing (or not)!
Optional: Drizzle a bit more jelly on top for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your delicious cups to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of heat. You’ll have the perfect balance of creamy and fiery!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley with the cream cheese for a fresh herbaceous twist. A little greenery can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
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Cheesy Twist: Incorporate crumbled feta or goat cheese with the cream cheese for added tanginess. This substitution provides a delightful richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet jelly!
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Sweet Swap: Try using a fruit preserves instead of cranberry hot pepper jelly, such as raspberry or apricot. It will offer a different, yet delightful sweetness that complements the creamy base.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative made from cashews or tofu. You can still achieve that creamy goodness without any animal products.
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch. This texture enhancement will beautifully contrast the creamy filling.
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Gourmet Touch: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top just before serving for a gourmet flair! It adds a rich sweetness that elevates these cups to a fancy appetizer.
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Miniature Version: Use bite-sized cucumber rounds instead of phyllo cups for a fresh twist. This makes for a lighter, refreshing treat that’s still packed with flavor!
What to Serve with Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups?
These delightful bites are perfect for creating a memorable meal experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the cups beautifully. The freshness adds a light touch to the overall meal.
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Savory Crostini: Top thin slices of toasted baguette with herbed cheese or smoked salmon for an elegant appetizer that pairs well with the spicy jelly. The crunchiness will resonate with the phyllo cups.
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Charcuterie Board: Offer a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and fruits alongside the cups. This variety enhances flavor profiles and allows guests to customize their bites.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the spicy notes of the jelly, adding earthy flavors and texture contrast.
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Sparkling White Wine: A glass of bubbly pairs nicely, elevating the dish and enhancing its festive quality while the acidity cuts through the rich cream cheese.
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Lemon Tart: For dessert, a light, tangy lemon tart contrasts the flavors in the cups perfectly, leaving a refreshing finish to your meal.
This delightful array of pairings not only celebrates the deliciousness of the cups but also elevates your dining experience by bringing together diverse flavors and textures!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
Fridge: Store leftover cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled to maintain their freshness and avoid soggy phyllo.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled cups unbaked. Place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake frozen cups directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This keeps the phyllo crispy and the filling delightful, ensuring your Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups taste as good as fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful appetizer with ease! You can prepare the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, you can fill the mini phyllo cups with the cream cheese mixture up to 2 hours before serving—place them on a serving platter, cover with plastic wrap, and keep them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just top each cup with the cranberry hot pepper jelly and fresh chives, and enjoy the same burst of delicious flavors with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing your Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Avoid overfilling your phyllo cups to prevent spillage during baking, as this will help keep your presentation neat.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs or spices to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.
- Bake your cups just until they are warm and slightly golden, as this will retain their crispness while warming the filling perfectly.
Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cream cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture, opt for full-fat cream cheese rather than low-fat options. Full-fat cream cheese offers a richer flavor and creamier consistency, which is ideal for spreading and mixing. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature to avoid lumps and to ensure it blends smoothly.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups?
Very! Store any uneaten cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness of the phyllo cups, avoid stacking them and instead, keep them flat.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups?
Certainly! For freezing, prepare the assembled cups but leave them unbaked. Place them gently in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag and they’ll last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This helps retain their lovely crispness!
What if my phyllo cups become soggy?
If you find your phyllo cups are soggy, try baking them for just a minute on their own before filling them. This briefly warms them up and helps to create a barrier against the moisture from the filling. Additionally, be cautious not to overfill the cups so that they can hold their structure.
Are these cups suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
The cranberry hot pepper jelly cream cheese cups contain dairy and gluten (from the phyllo dough), which may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. If needed, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and gluten-free phyllo cups to accommodate different dietary needs. Always check the jelly for any allergens and ensure it aligns with your guests’ dietary requirements.
How long can I serve these cups at room temperature?
You can safely leave the Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups out at room temperature for about 2 hours. If you’re serving them during a longer gathering, consider keeping them on ice or in a chilled serving dish to maintain their freshness and flavor. If it’s warm in the room, monitor the time closely to ensure they stay safe to eat!
Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Spoon or pipe the cream cheese filling into each mini phyllo cup.
- Top each filled cup with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry hot pepper jelly.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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