The Easiest 3-Ingredient Cream Cheese Appetizer
Looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that takes less than two minutes to prepare? This Cream Cheese and Chili Jam Appetizer is the perfect solution. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute game night or need a quick contribution for a potluck, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
The secret lies in the contrast: the cooling, velvety texture of the cream cheese perfectly balances the sweet heat of the pepper jelly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 Block (8 oz) Cream Cheese: For the best texture and flavor, use full-fat brick cream cheese rather than the whipped or tub variety.
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1 Jar (10-12 oz) Red Pepper Jelly: You can use sweet pepper jelly for a milder taste or hot pepper jelly (chili jam) if you want a spicy kick.
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Crackers for Serving: Sturdy butter crackers (like Ritz), wheat thins, or toasted baguette slices work beautifully.
Instructions
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Prep the Base: Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving so it softens slightly. Place the unwrapped block directly onto the center of a serving platter.
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Add the Topping: Using a spoon, generously pour the red pepper jelly over the top of the cream cheese block. Let the excess jelly drip down the sides for that classic, appetizing look.
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Serve: Surround the block with your favorite crackers and serve immediately.
