When it comes to party appetizers, it’s hard to beat a hot, cheesy dip straight out of the oven — especially one that’s layered with flavor, has a little heat, and finishes with a crispy, buttery topping. This Hot Pepper Jelly Cheese Bake, made with Jefferson Jellies Hot Pepper Jelly, is everything you want in a warm dip: creamy, cheesy, a little spicy, and totally addictive.
It’s the kind of dish that disappears in minutes — and always has people asking for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Dip
This recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and spicy:
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The base combines mayo, cream cheese, cheddar, and green onions — rich and flavorful with a slight tang.
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After baking, it’s topped with a layer of sweet-heat from the Jefferson Jellies Hot Pepper Jelly.
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Crispy bacon and crumbled Ritz crackers give it just the right amount of salty crunch on top.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party, game day, or family gathering, this dip hits all the right notes and is incredibly easy to throw together.
Hot Pepper Jelly Cheese Bake Recipe
Ingredients:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 green onions, chopped
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1 (8 oz) jar Jefferson Jellies Hot Pepper Jelly
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Chopped cooked bacon (about 4 slices)
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6–8 Ritz crackers, crumbled
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Extra crackers, for serving
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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In a mixing bowl, combine mayo, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and green onions. Mix until smooth.
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Spread the mixture evenly into a pie dish or small baking dish.
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Bake for 15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
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Carefully spread the hot pepper jelly evenly over the warm cheese mixture.
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Top with chopped bacon and crumbled Ritz crackers.
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Serve hot with your favorite crackers — and watch it disappear!
Tips & Serving Suggestions
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Make It Ahead: Mix the base and keep it in the fridge. Pop it in the oven and add toppings just before serving.
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Spice Level: Jefferson Jellies Hot Pepper Jelly brings a nice heat without overwhelming the dish — but you can always use a milder or hotter version to suit your crowd.
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Serving Idea: Serve with celery sticks or sliced baguette for variety alongside crackers.
If you're looking for a reliable, flavor-packed appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is to devour, this Hot Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is a winner. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy-sweet jelly, crispy bacon, and buttery Ritz is pure magic — and perfect for any occasion.
Trust us: you’ll want to double the recipe.