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Sweet and Spicy Pepper Jelly Cheeseball Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 65 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cheeseball, serves approximately 8-10 people as an appetizer 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Sweet and Spicy Pepper Jelly Cheeseball is a delightful appetizer combining creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and the vibrant flavors of sweet and spicy pepper jelly. Rolled in crunchy pecans and optionally garnished with green onions, it’s perfect for parties and gatherings, served alongside crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Base

  • 2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Additions and Coating

  • 1/3 cup sweet and spicy pepper jelly
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for coating)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Serving

  • Crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a uniform texture.
  2. Add seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of extra heat, allowing the flavors to infuse evenly throughout the cheese blend.
  3. Add the jelly: Gently fold in the sweet and spicy pepper jelly, mixing just enough to evenly distribute it without overworking the mixture, which could affect texture.
  4. Shape and chill: Form the cheese mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let it firm up and hold its shape perfectly.
  5. Coat with pecans: Once chilled, remove the cheeseball from the wrap and roll it in the chopped pecans until fully coated, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Place the finished cheeseball on a serving platter, sprinkle with finely chopped green onions if desired, and serve with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables as a tasty appetizer.

Notes

  • For extra heat, be sure to include the cayenne pepper, or omit for a milder version.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
  • The cheeseball can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld even more.
  • Try different nut coatings like almonds or walnuts if pecans aren’t available.
  • Pair it with assorted crackers or crunchy veggies to suit your guests’ preferences.

Find it online: https://yumrecipesfood.com/sweet-and-spicy-pepper-jelly-cheeseball-recipe/