Cream Cheese Pepper Jelly Star

Featured in: Weekend Farmhouse-Style Treats

This elegant dish features softened cream cheese expertly shaped into a star, creating a visually appealing centerpiece. A generous layer of sweet and spicy pepper jelly crowns the creamy base, offering a delightful contrast in flavors. Optional fresh herbs add a burst of color and freshness. Simply chill the shaped cheese for stability, then spoon the jelly on top. Serve with crackers or baguette slices for a flavorful appetizer that's quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 16:26:00 GMT
Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Star Appetizer: A creamy cheese star drizzled with glistening red pepper jelly, ready to serve. Pin This
Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Star Appetizer: A creamy cheese star drizzled with glistening red pepper jelly, ready to serve. | orchardflint.com

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.

I love serving this star appetizer at gatherings because it always impresses guests with its unique shape and delicious taste.

Ingredients

  • Cream Cheese: 225 g (8 oz), softened
  • Red Pepper Jelly: 120 ml (½ cup)
  • Fresh Herbs: e.g. chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Assorted Crackers or Baguette Slices: for serving

Instructions

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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.
Product image
Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.
Check price on Amazon
Festive Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Star Appetizer, a party-perfect dish with vibrant red jelly and fresh herbs. Pin This
Festive Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Star Appetizer, a party-perfect dish with vibrant red jelly and fresh herbs. | orchardflint.com

This appetizer always brings smiles and compliments from family and friends during our celebrations.

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.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 120. Total Fat: 8 g. Carbohydrates: 8 g. Protein: 2 g per serving.

Enjoy a visually appealing Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Star Appetizer, served elegantly with crackers for dipping. Pin This
Enjoy a visually appealing Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Star Appetizer, served elegantly with crackers for dipping. | orchardflint.com
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This star appetizer is a simple yet elegant choice sure to delight guests at any party.

Recipe FAQs

How do I shape the cream cheese into a star?

Use plastic wrap to mold softened cream cheese by hand or press it into a star-shaped cookie cutter for a clean design.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, shape the cheese and chill for 10–15 minutes to firm it before adding the pepper jelly topping.

What types of pepper jelly work best?

Traditional red pepper jelly works well, but variations like jalapeño or fruit-infused jellies can add unique flavor twists.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, serve with gluten-free crackers or bread to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

What garnishes complement this dish?

Freshly chopped herbs such as chives or parsley enhance color and freshness when sprinkled on top.

Cream Cheese Pepper Jelly Star

Festive creamy star-shaped cheese topped with sweet, spicy jelly. Ideal for parties and easy prep.

Time to Prep
10 minutes
0
Overall Time
10 minutes
Created by Luke Campbell


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 8 Portions

Dietary Details Suitable for Vegetarians, No Gluten

What You’ll Need

Dairy

01 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Condiments

01 ½ cup red pepper jelly

Garnishes & Serving

01 Fresh herbs (chives or parsley), finely chopped (optional)
02 Assorted crackers or baguette slices, for serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Shape cream cheese: Place softened cream cheese on plastic wrap and gently mold into a star shape by hand or using a star-shaped cookie cutter.

Step 02

Transfer to serving platter: Carefully move the star-shaped cream cheese onto a serving platter.

Step 03

Add pepper jelly: Spoon red pepper jelly evenly over the cream cheese, letting some drip down the sides.

Step 04

Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Step 05

Serve: Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.

Needed Gear

  • Plastic wrap
  • Spatula or butter knife
  • Star-shaped cookie cutter (optional)
  • Serving platter

Allergy Advisory

Review all ingredients for allergens. Check with a health expert if you have concerns.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese).
  • Check pepper jelly and crackers for hidden allergens.
  • Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

This data is provided for your reference. Always consult with a healthcare professional for nutrition advice.
  • Caloric Value: 120
  • Fats: 8 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 8 grams
  • Proteins: 2 grams