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Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip

Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip

This savory and sweet Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Dip is the ultimate party appetizer that combines creamy textures with a kick of heat. Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or a casual game night, this warm, baked dip is guaranteed to be the first dish to disappear.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Dip
Cuisine: American
Calories: 341
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces thick-cut bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup scallions thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly (sweet red pepper or hot pepper jelly)
  • Ritz crackers for serving

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it is browned and crisp. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into small pieces.
    8 ounces thick-cut bacon
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and thinly sliced scallions. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
    16 ounces cream cheese, 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup scallions
  4. Transfer the mixture into a small baking dish and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
  5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and starting to bubble around the edges.
  6. While the dip is baking, place the pepper jelly in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 15 to 20 seconds until it is slightly melted and easy to pour.
    1/2 cup pepper jelly
  7. Remove the dip from the oven and pour the melted pepper jelly over the top, spreading it to the edges.
    1/2 cup pepper jelly
  8. Garnish with additional sliced scallions and serve immediately while warm with Ritz crackers.
    1/2 cup scallions, Ritz crackers

Notes

Always soften your cream cheese before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free base. Freshly shredded cheese melts much better than the pre-shredded bagged variety which can affect texture.