Description
A creamy and flavorful Pepper Jelly Cheese Spread combining smooth cream cheese and tangy goat cheese with sweet and spicy pepper jelly. This easy no-cook appetizer is enhanced with optional toasted nuts for added texture and is perfect served with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Spread
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red pepper jelly recommended)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
For Serving
- Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetables
Instructions
- Soften the Cheeses: Remove cream cheese and goat cheese from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes until soft enough to mix smoothly.
- Combine the Cheeses: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and goat cheese.
- Mix Until Smooth: Using a hand mixer or spoon, mix the cheeses together thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Measure Pepper Jelly: Measure out 1/2 cup of your chosen pepper jelly, chopping any large chunks of peppers if necessary for easier distribution.
- Incorporate Pepper Jelly: Gently fold the pepper jelly into the cheese mixture until it is evenly blended throughout.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning, adding more pepper jelly for sweetness or red pepper flakes/hot sauce if you prefer more spice.
- Toast the Nuts (Optional): Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or prepare a dry skillet over medium heat, then toast pecans or walnuts for 5-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Chop the Nuts: Once toasted, chop the nuts into small pieces suitable for mixing.
- Fold in the Nuts: Gently fold the chopped nuts into the cheese and pepper jelly mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Chill the Spread: Transfer the pepper jelly cheese spread into a serving bowl or airtight container, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator a few minutes before serving to let soften slightly, then serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with additional chopped toasted nuts or fresh herbs to enhance presentation and flavor.
Notes
- You can customize the sweetness or heat level by adjusting the type and amount of pepper jelly and optional hot spices.
- Softening the cheeses before mixing ensures a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
- Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the spread.
- This spread can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free variation, try vegan cream cheese and goat cheese substitutes.
