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Sweet and spicy pepper jelly cheeseball served on a platter

Sweet & Spicy Pepper Jelly Cheeseball

This Sweet & Spicy Pepper Jelly Cheeseball is an easy, impressive appetizer that balances creamy cheese with sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheeseball Base
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Let sit at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 4 oz full-fat cream cheese Or 1 extra 8 oz for a creamier cheeseball.
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepper jelly (sweet & spicy style) Flavor engine; can adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt Optional for extra tang.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
  • 3–4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled Optional but highly recommended.
Coating
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or chopped toasted walnuts For coating.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Serving Suggestions
  • Crackers, sliced baguette, or sturdy vegetables For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Let both cream cheeses sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to soften.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheeses with sour cream until smooth.
  3. Fold in shredded cheddar and chopped green onions.
  4. Stir in half of the pepper jelly and crumbled bacon, tasting and adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Scoop the mixture onto a plastic wrap, shape it into a ball, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Coating and Serving
  1. Spread the chopped pecans on a plate, remove the cheeseball from the wrap and roll it in the nuts.
  2. Place the cheeseball on a platter and spoon the remaining pepper jelly over the top.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and chopped green onion.
  4. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or veggies. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a nut-free option, substitute pecans with chopped chives and extra cheddar. Make-ahead: Can be prepared a day before serving. If traveling, pack jelly separately to avoid sticky mishaps.