Introduction to Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious yet impressive. That’s where my Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups come in! These delightful little bites are not only quick to prepare but also pack a punch of flavor that will wow your family and friends. Imagine creamy cheese paired with a sweet and spicy jelly, all nestled in a crispy phyllo cup. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is a go-to for anyone looking to impress without the fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups
These Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups are a lifesaver for busy days! They come together in just 27 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy family night. The combination of creamy cheese and zesty jelly creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they look stunning on any table, making you feel like a culinary superstar without the stress!
Ingredients for Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Phyllo cups: These crispy shells are the perfect vessel for our creamy filling. You can find them in the freezer section of your grocery store.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a rich, creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese.
- Cranberry pepper jelly: This sweet and spicy jelly is the star of the show! It adds a burst of flavor. You can make your own or buy it at specialty stores.
- Chopped fresh chives: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. If you don’t have chives, green onions work well too.
- Black pepper: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that the phyllo cups bake evenly. You want them to be perfectly crispy and golden, not soggy!
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, and black pepper. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend everything until smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of our phyllo cups, so make sure it’s well combined for the best flavor.
Step 3: Arrange the Phyllo Cups
Next, take your phyllo cups out of the package and place them on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out evenly. This allows hot air to circulate around each cup, ensuring they bake uniformly. Trust me, no one likes a soggy bottom!
Step 4: Fill the Phyllo Cups
Now comes the fun part! Using a spoon, fill each phyllo cup generously with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—these cups can hold a good amount. The more, the merrier! Just make sure not to overfill them, or they might spill over while baking.
Step 5: Add the Cranberry Pepper Jelly
Top each filled cup with a teaspoon of cranberry pepper jelly. This sweet and spicy layer is what makes these cups truly special. It adds a burst of flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy cheese. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference—more jelly for a sweeter kick!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the phyllo cups to turn a lovely golden brown. This is when they’ll be at their crispiest and most delicious.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, let the phyllo cups cool slightly. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, they’ll be easier to handle when serving. Enjoy your delightful Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip preheating the oven; it’s key for crispy phyllo cups.
- Experiment with different jellies for unique flavor combinations.
- For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra chives before serving.
- These cups can be made ahead and baked just before guests arrive!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works perfectly. If you don’t have one, a large oven-safe dish will do.
- Mixing bowl: Any bowl will suffice, but a medium-sized one makes mixing easier.
- Spoon: Use a regular spoon for filling the cups, or a small cookie scoop for precision.
- Hand mixer or spatula: A hand mixer speeds up the cream cheese mixing, but a spatula works just fine.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley with the cream cheese for a fresh flavor boost.
- Fruit Fusion: Swap cranberry pepper jelly for raspberry or apricot preserves for a different sweet profile.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and a plant-based phyllo cup for a delicious dairy-free alternative.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the jelly for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider for a refreshing complement.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal option.
- For a festive touch, arrange them on a beautiful platter garnished with extra chives and cranberries.
- Include a selection of cheeses and crackers for a delightful appetizer spread.
FAQs about Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups
Can I make these Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and fill the phyllo cups ahead of time. Just cover them and store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for the best results!
What can I substitute for cranberry pepper jelly?
If cranberry pepper jelly isn’t available, you can use other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot. Just make sure they have a sweet and spicy flavor to complement the cream cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days, but you can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze these phyllo cups?
Yes, you can freeze the filled phyllo cups before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these phyllo cups?
These delightful cups pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, a selection of cheeses, or even a glass of sparkling wine. They make a fantastic addition to any appetizer spread!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that can turn any gathering into a memorable occasion. I love how they look and taste, making me feel like a culinary wizard, even on my busiest days. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive party, these little cups are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
Print
Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups Delight You!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 phyllo cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful appetizer featuring creamy cheese and a sweet and spicy cranberry pepper jelly, all encased in crispy phyllo cups.
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo cups
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry pepper jelly
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, and black pepper until smooth.
- Place the phyllo cups on a baking sheet.
- Fill each phyllo cup with a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture.
- Top each filled cup with a teaspoon of cranberry pepper jelly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the phyllo cups are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more pepper jelly.
- These can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Garnish with additional chives for presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 phyllo cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
