Save A festive, creamy appetizer featuring tangy cream cheese topped with sweet and spicy pepper jelly, shaped into a beautiful star for a party-ready presentation.
This appetizer is a favorite for holidays and gatherings, always impressing guests with its flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 225 g (8 oz) softened
- Red Pepper Jelly: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Fresh Herbs: finely chopped, optional (e.g., chives or parsley)
- Crackers or Baguette Slices: for serving
Instructions
- Shape Cream Cheese:
- Place the softened cream cheese on a sheet of plastic wrap Using clean hands or a spatula gently mold it into a star shape (alternatively use a star-shaped cookie cutter as a mold)
- Transfer:
- Carefully transfer the shaped cream cheese onto a serving platter
- Add Jelly:
- Spoon the pepper jelly evenly over the top of the cream cheese allowing some to drip attractively down the sides
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs if desired
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices
Save This snack brings the family together during the holidays and is always a conversation starter.
Notes
Pairs well with light white wines or sparkling wines
Required Tools
Plastic wrap spatula or butter knife star-shaped cookie cutter (optional) serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese) Serve with gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option Always check pepper jelly and cracker labels for hidden allergens
Save This delightful appetizer is effortless to prepare and sure to become a favorite at your next gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I shape the cream cheese into a star?
Place softened cream cheese on plastic wrap and mold gently with your hands or use a star-shaped cookie cutter for precision.
- → Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the molded cream cheese star for 10-15 minutes before adding the jelly helps maintain a clean shape.
- → What types of pepper jelly work best?
Traditional red pepper jelly works well, but jalapeño, hot pepper, or fruit-infused varieties add interesting flavor twists.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve immediately with assorted crackers or baguette slices to complement the creamy and spicy flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for specific dietary needs?
It is vegetarian and can be gluten-free if paired with appropriate gluten-free crackers.