Pin this 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 always a hit at parties and perfect for quick preparation with just a few simple ingredients
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 225 g (8 oz) softened
- Red Pepper Jelly: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Fresh Herbs: finely chopped (optional)
- Crackers or Baguette Slices: for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- 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)
- Step 2:
- Carefully transfer the shaped cream cheese onto a serving platter
- Step 3:
- Spoon the pepper jelly evenly over the top of the cream cheese allowing some to drip attractively down the sides
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs if desired
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices
Pin this Our family enjoys gathering around this star appetizer especially during holiday celebrations
Notes
Try different types of pepper jelly such as jalapeño hot pepper or fruit-infused for varied flavor
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
Pin this This easy star appetizer brings elegance and flavor to any occasion
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I shape the cream cheese neatly?
Use a star-shaped cookie cutter as a mold or shape it gently with hands on plastic wrap. For a firmer shape, chill for 10–15 minutes before adding jelly.
- → What types of pepper jelly work best?
Red pepper jelly is traditional, but jalapeño, hot pepper, or fruit-infused varieties offer exciting flavor twists.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, shape the cream cheese and chill it first, then add the pepper jelly and herbs just before serving to keep fresh texture and appearance.
- → What to serve alongside this star shape?
Assorted crackers, gluten-free if needed, or baguette slices complement the creamy and spicy flavors perfectly.
- → Are there any dietary considerations?
This dish contains dairy but can be gluten-free if paired with appropriate crackers. Always check labels for allergens in pepper jelly and crackers.