Name: Star-Shaped Cheese Appetizers with Red Hot Pepper Jelly
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 egg (for egg wash); ¼ cup red hot pepper jelly (or more as needed); Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Introduction:

A festive and flavorful treat, these cheese-filled puff pastry stars topped with red hot pepper jelly are the perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and crispy. They’re an eye-catching addition to any gathering!

Description:

Flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy cheese mixture, topped with sweet and spicy red hot pepper jelly. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any festive occasion!

Ingredients:

1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper
1 egg (for egg wash)
¼ cup red hot pepper jelly (or more as needed)

Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out star shapes. If you don’t have a star cutter, any other shape will work, or you can make round bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Appetizers:
Arrange the pastry stars on the lined baking sheet.
Add a small dollop of the cheese mixture to the center of each star and spread it evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.

5. Egg Wash for a Golden Finish:
Whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush it lightly onto the exposed edges of the puff pastry.

6. Bake:
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and crisp and the cheese filling is bubbly.

7. Add the Red Hot Pepper Jelly:
Let the baked appetizers cool slightly, then top each with a small dollop of red hot pepper jelly.

8. Garnish and Serve:
Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy: These flaky, cheesy appetizers with a sweet and spicy kick from the pepper jelly will be the highlight of your table!

Variation:

Spicy Cheese Filling: For an extra kick, mix diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese filling. This variation adds a zesty heat that complements the sweetness of the pepper jelly.
Different Shapes: Use cookie cutters in festive shapes like trees, hearts, or circles to match the theme of your event. This makes the appetizers even more fun and visually appealing.

Alternate Jellies: Swap the red hot pepper jelly for fig jam, apricot preserves, or honey for a milder sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cheese filling.

Cooking Notes:

For extra spice, mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese filling.
Use mini tart pans for a different presentation.

Serving Suggestions:

Party Platter: Arrange the appetizers on a large platter with fresh herbs or edible flowers for decoration. This makes them look as good as they taste.
Pair with a Drink: Serve with a chilled white wine, sparkling water, or a festive cocktail to balance the richness of the cheese and the spiciness of the jelly.
Dipping Sauce: Offer a small bowl of extra red hot pepper jelly or a sweet chili sauce on the side for guests who love an extra flavor boost.

Tips:

Make Ahead: Prepare the cheese filling and cut out the puff pastry shapes in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake just before serving for fresh, warm appetizers.
Baking Evenly: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Oven hotspots can cause uneven baking if left unchecked.

Custom Garnishes: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the jelly topping for added texture and flavor. This extra step creates a more gourmet feel.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Appetizer)

Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese filling and cut the puff pastry shapes a day in advance. Keep the pastry refrigerated in an airtight container, and store the filling separately. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.

What can I substitute for red hot pepper jelly?
If you don’t have red hot pepper jelly, you can use sweet chili sauce, sriracha mixed with honey, or a fruit-based preserve like apricot or peach for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Can I freeze these appetizers?
Absolutely! Freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free puff pastry. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The results will still be flaky and delicious!

What other garnishes can I use?
In addition to parsley or chives, try garnishing with toasted sesame seeds, chopped pecans, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flair and flavor.

Conclusion:

Star-Shaped Cheese Appetizers with Red Hot Pepper Jelly are a delightful combination of creamy cheese, buttery puff pastry, and a sweet-and-spicy topping that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, these appetizers are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. With endless variations and serving options, this recipe is a versatile addition to your party menu. Enjoy the compliments from your guests as they savor every flaky, cheesy bite!

Star-Shaped Cheese Appetizers with Red Hot Pepper Jelly

Author: Diana Carrozza

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12-15 appetizers 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Ingredients

Scale

1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp Dijon mustard

½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

1 egg (for egg wash)
¼ cup red hot pepper jelly (or more as needed)
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions