Introduction
These Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, perfect for any gathering or special occasion. Picture this: rich, creamy cream cheese mingling with the zesty warmth of cranberry hot pepper jelly, all nestled in a crispy mini phyllo cup. These bite-sized treats are not only simple to make but also sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a scrumptious snack, these little cups are the ticket!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry hot pepper jelly
- 1 package of mini phyllo cups (15 count)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your phyllo cups bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- Arrange the mini phyllo cups on a baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even heating.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the cranberry hot pepper jelly. Use a spatula or a spoon to stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
- Spoon the luscious cream cheese mixture generously into each phyllo cup, ensuring each one is filled to the brim with that sweet and spicy goodness.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cream cheese filling is warm and slightly bubbly, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.
- Once baked, carefully remove the cups from the oven and let them cool slightly on the sheet.
- For a bright finish, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an extra crunch, you can bake the phyllo cups for a couple of minutes before adding the filling. This enhances their crispiness and makes them even more delightful. Feel free to adjust the level of hot pepper jelly according to your spice preference. If you want a milder version, simply reduce the jelly or substitute it with a sweet cranberry jelly.
Cooking Techniques
Using phyllo cups is a fantastic way to achieve a flaky, crispy texture without the fuss of making pastry from scratch. Ensure that the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and spreading. Baking just until bubbly helps maintain that wonderful creamy texture inside while providing a slight warm outer layer that elevates the flavor of both the cream cheese and the jelly.
FAQ
Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the phyllo cups and bake right before serving for the best results.
What can I serve these with?
These cups are perfect on their own but also pair wonderfully with a fruit platter or a selection of your favorite crackers. They make for a colorful addition to any appetizer table!
Conclusion
These Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are a delightful addition to any festive spread, balancing flavors that will excite your palate and charm your guests. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, they are sure to become a favorite appetizer in your home. So, gather your friends and family, and get ready to dig into these scrumptious bites that celebrate the best of sweet and savory!