What are Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups?

Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups are bite-sized appetizers featuring a crisp mini phyllo or wonton cup filled with smooth cream cheese and topped with sweet and spicy cranberry hot pepper jelly. They are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any festive occasion.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use classic cream cheese, flavored cream cheese, Each option pairs well with the sweet and spicy cranberry hot pepper jelly, keeping Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups flavorful and creamy.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can prepare the cream cheese filling a few hours in advance, but it’s best to assemble Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups right before serving to keep the cups crisp and the topping fresh.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely. Try fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts, or even a small twist of citrus zest. Customizing adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal to Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups.

Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups Recipe 2026

Name: Cranberry Hot Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 mini cups
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 mini phyllo or wonton cups; Non-stick cooking spray (optional, to lightly coat cups); 8 oz cream cheese, softened (or فرماج cream cheese for a Middle Eastern twist); 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup cranberry hot pepper jelly; Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish, e.g., thyme or parsley); Chopped nuts (optional, for garnish, e.g., pecans or walnuts)

Description

A sweet, spicy, and creamy bite-sized appetizer perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. Mini cups are filled with smooth cream cheese and topped with tangy cranberry hot pepper jelly for a festive flavor punch.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for 24 mini cups):

For the Cups:

24 mini phyllo or wonton cups
Non-stick cooking spray (optional, to lightly coat cups)

For the Filling:

8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened (or فرماج cream cheese for a Middle Eastern twist)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

½ cup cranberry hot pepper jelly
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish, e.g., thyme or parsley)
Chopped nuts (optional, for garnish, e.g., pecans or walnuts)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Cups
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if using phyllo cups to crisp. Place mini cups on a baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray if desired. Bake 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Cups
Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into each mini cup until nearly full. Top each with a small spoonful of cranberry hot pepper jelly.

Step 4: Garnish
Optionally sprinkle with chopped nuts or fresh herbs for color and added flavor.

Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving. For best crispness, assemble just before serving.

Notes

Make Ahead: Prepare cream cheese filling in advance; fill cups right before serving.
Mini Version: Perfect for a holiday appetizer platter—adjust quantity as needed.
Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the cream cheese for extra festive flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer / Holiday Snack
Method: No-Bake / Quick Assembly
Cuisine: American / Festive