Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Pepper Jelly Cheese Spread: The Ultimate Guide & Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 72 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 2 cups
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pepper Jelly Cheese Spread is a creamy and flavorful appetizer that combines the tanginess of cream cheese and goat cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of pepper jelly. Toasted nuts add a delightful crunch, making it perfect for serving with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this spread is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering or snack time.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheeses

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, softened

Flavoring

  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly, any flavor (red pepper jelly recommended)

Nuts (Optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted

To Serve

  • Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cheeses: Remove the cream cheese and goat cheese from the refrigerator 30 to 60 minutes before preparing the spread to allow them to soften, which makes mixing easier and results in a smooth texture.
  2. Combine the Cheeses: Place the softened cream cheese and goat cheese in a medium-sized bowl for mixing.
  3. Mix Until Smooth: Using a hand mixer or spoon, blend the cheeses thoroughly until you achieve a completely smooth and creamy consistency.
  4. Measure Pepper Jelly: Measure out 1/2 cup of your chosen pepper jelly. If the jelly contains large chunks of peppers, chop them finely for even distribution.
  5. Incorporate Pepper Jelly: Fold the pepper jelly gently into the cheese mixture, ensuring it is evenly mixed without deflating the creaminess.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Sample the spread and adjust the sweetness or spiciness by adding more pepper jelly, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce according to your preference.
  7. Toast the Nuts (Optional): If using nuts, toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes or in a dry skillet over medium heat until they release a fragrant aroma and turn lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
  8. Chop the Nuts: Once toasted, chop the nuts into small, bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and garnish.
  9. Fold in the Nuts: Gently fold the chopped toasted nuts into the cheese and pepper jelly spread, distributing them evenly.
  10. Chill the Spread: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or storage container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the spread to firm up and flavors to meld.
  11. Serve: Remove the spread from the refrigerator a few minutes before serving to let it soften slightly, making it easier to spread. Present with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
  12. Garnish (Optional): For extra texture and visual appeal, garnish with additional chopped toasted nuts or fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

  • Softening the cheeses at room temperature is key to achieving a smooth and creamy spread.
  • Feel free to experiment with different flavors of pepper jelly, such as jalapeño or habanero for added heat.
  • To make the nuts easier to chop, toast them until just fragrant and golden but not burnt.
  • The spread can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance the flavors.
  • Serve with a variety of dippers like celery sticks or pretzel crisps for different textures.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://kellyedylene.com/pepper-jelly-cheese-spread-the-ultimate-guide-and-recipe/