Food and Recipes Recipes Pepper-Pepper Cheese Dip Meet your new favorite party appetizer. By Julia Dowling Rutland Julia Dowling Rutland Julia is a writer and culinary professional with expertise in the food, travel, publishing and marketing industries. Her specialized skills include project development, recipe development, styling and media demonstration. Julia has deep knowledge of cooking principals, is passionate about consumer education, and skilled in savvy story packaging. Connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and at www.juliarutland.com. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Updated on August 1, 2022 Print Share Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Coastal Living Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 28 mins Total Time: 43 mins Yield: 10 to 12 servings We couldn't stop going back for more of this creamy dip—a topping of bacon and pepper jelly is an unexpected twist on an old party favorite. It's delicious both bubbling-hot and at room temperature, so it's perfect to serve guests for a beachy brunch or screened-porch dinner. Ingredients 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese 2 to 3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced 6 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled 1/2 cup hot or mild pepper jelly, divided Toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crackers Garnish: crumbled bacon Directions Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine first 4 ingredients and 1/4 cup pepper jelly in a medium bowl; stir until well blended. Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish. Bake 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Top with remaining 1/4 cup pepper jelly and bacon. Serve immediately or at room temperature with baguette slices. Print