Sweet and spicy pepper jelly cheeseball is a creamy, tangy party dip wrapped in a crunchy pecan coating, with just the right balance of sweetness and heat from pepper jelly. It’s an easy make-ahead appetizer that looks impressive on any grazing board and pairs perfectly with crackers, breadsticks, or veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Cheeseball
This cheeseball combines softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and warm spices for a rich, savory base that’s brightened by sweet and spicy pepper jelly. The outside gets rolled in chopped pecans for crunch, and a sprinkle of green onions adds color and freshness. You can mix, chill, coat, and stash it in the fridge, then simply plate and serve when guests arrive.
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Ingredients
- 2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 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)
- Crackers, breadsticks, or veggies, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Cheese Base
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- Beat with a hand mixer or stir with a sturdy spatula until smooth and fully combined with no lumps of cream cheese.
Add the Pepper Jelly
- Spoon in the pepper jelly and fold it into the cheese mixture.
- For a fully blended flavor, mix it all the way in; for pops of sweetness and heat, swirl it lightly so streaks of jelly remain.
Shape and Chill
- Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap.
- Gather the wrap around the mixture and shape it into a ball, twisting the ends to tighten and compact it.
- Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to handle easily.
Coat and Garnish
- Spread the chopped pecans on a plate.
- Unwrap the chilled cheeseball and roll it in the pecans until completely coated, pressing gently so they stick.
- Place on a serving plate and sprinkle finely chopped green onions over the top or around the base for color.
Serve
- Surround the cheeseball with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies.
- Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving so it softens slightly and spreads easily.
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