Introduction

Pepper jelly cheese spread is a delightful combination of creamy cheeses and sweet-spicy pepper jelly. Perfect for entertaining or a simple snack, this spread offers a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.

A close-up view of round golden crackers each topped with two visible layers: the first layer is a creamy cheese mix with bits of green herbs and chunks of nuts, showing a rough texture, and the second layer is a glossy, deep red jelly with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. These crackers are arranged on a wooden tray, with slightly blurred strawberries in the background. The scene is set on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces goat cheese, softened
1/2 cup pepper jelly, any flavor (red pepper jelly recommended)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional)
Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Soften the cream cheese and goat cheese by leaving them out of the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes before starting.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and goat cheese.
Step 3: Mix the cheeses together until completely smooth, using a hand mixer or spoon.
Step 4: Measure out 1/2 cup of pepper jelly, chopping any large pepper chunks if necessary.
Step 5: Add the pepper jelly to the cheese mixture and gently fold until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Taste the spread and adjust the flavor by adding more pepper jelly for sweetness or red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra spice.
Step 7: (Optional) Toast nuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes or in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
Step 8: Chop the toasted nuts into small pieces.
Step 9: Gently fold the chopped nuts into the cheese and pepper jelly mixture.
Step 10: Transfer the spread to a serving bowl or container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm enough to spread.
Step 11: Remove from the refrigerator a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables.
Step 12: (Optional) Garnish with extra chopped toasted nuts or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, use a hand mixer to blend the cheeses thoroughly.
Try different flavors of pepper jelly, such as mango or habanero, to customize the sweetness and heat level.
Substitute toasted almonds or cashews if pecans or walnuts aren’t available.
Serve the spread at room temperature for the best flavor and spreadability.

Storage

Store the pepper jelly cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften. This spread is not recommended for freezing as it may affect the texture.

How to Serve

The image shows round golden crackers as the bottom layer with a smooth and slightly glossy surface. On top of each cracker is a thick, creamy cheese ball mixed with chopped green herbs and crunchy pecan pieces, giving it a textured white and brown look. Each cheese ball is topped with a dollop of dark red jelly that appears shiny and slightly translucent, sprinkled with small slices of green herbs. The snacks are placed on a wooden board, set against a background of a white marbled texture with blurred red berries. The scene is close-up and focused on the nearest cracker stack, creating a warm and inviting feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use only cream cheese or only goat cheese?

Yes, you can use either cream cheese or goat cheese alone, but the combination provides a balanced tangy and creamy flavor that makes the spread especially delicious.

How spicy is pepper jelly cheese spread?

The spice level depends on the type of pepper jelly you use. Red pepper jelly offers mild to moderate heat. To control the spice, choose milder jelly or adjust by adding hot sauce or red pepper flakes as desired.