Name: Christmas Pimento Cheese Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 (15-count) phyllo cups; 1 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought); ⅓ cup red pepper jelly; ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Bring a delightful twist to your festive gatherings this year with our Christmas Pimento Cheese Bites! This recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort food, embodying warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance that fits perfectly on any holiday table. Filled with creamy pimento cheese and topped with a sweet and spicy red pepper jelly, these bites are wrapped in crispy phyllo cups, making them a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a lively party or enjoying a cozy night in beside the tree, these small wonders are bound to create delicious memories.

Gooey, cheesy, and complemented by a delightful crunch from the pecans (when you choose to include them), these Pimento Cheese Bites come together in just 20 minutes! Super easy to prepare, they’re ideal for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices looking for a quick yet impressive appetizer. With their beautiful golden-brown appearance and festive flavors, you’ll want to make these a staple at your holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Pimento Cheese Bites

Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy pimento cheese with the sweet and spicy red pepper jelly creates a delicious flavor contrast that is hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, these bites are perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Showstopper Presentation: Their appealing look in crispy phyllo cups makes them a stunning addition to any appetizer spread.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings or even the cheese blend to suit your taste preferences.
Vegetarian Friendly: This recipe caters to vegetarian guests while still being completely satisfying for everyone.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, setting up your kitchen for success is essential. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the phyllo cups to bake evenly and achieve that irresistible golden brown color. Organize your workspace by gathering all your ingredients: phyllo cups, pimento cheese, red pepper jelly, and optional pecans. Have a baking sheet ready for the phyllo cups, and a tablespoon or small spoon for filling will be handy.

If you prefer homemade pimento cheese, consider preparing it ahead of time. Having it chilled and readily available makes assembly a breeze. While store-bought options are convenient and tasty, making it from scratch gives you control over flavors and ingredients. Once everything is in place, you’re ready to create a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests!

Ingredients

2 (15-count) phyllo cups
1 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought)
⅓ cup red pepper jelly
¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your phyllo cups will bake perfectly, becoming wonderfully golden and crisp while the cheese melts inside, creating a mouthwatering texture and flavor.

Step 2: Arrange the Phyllo Cups

Take your phyllo cups and arrange them on a baking sheet. Each cup should be lined up enough to give them space to breathe while baking. Using a tablespoon, carefully spoon about 1 tablespoon of pimento cheese into each cup, filling it just to the top for optimal ooey-gooey goodness when baked.

Step 3: Add the Red Pepper Jelly

Next, with a small spoon, add a dollop of red pepper jelly on top of the cheese in each cup. This component adds the perfect touch of sweetness and a hint of spice, complementing the creamy cheese beautifully.

Step 4: Optional Pecan Topping

If you’re feeling adventurous or love nuts in your appetizers, add a small piece of a pecan on top of each filled cup. This not only enhances the flavor but also brings an additional crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft pimento cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Cups

Carefully place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them — the phyllo cups should become golden brown and the filling should be bubbly and warm. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone’s mouths watering in anticipation!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once they are baked perfectly, take the bites out and allow them to cool for about five minutes. This resting period allows the cheese to set slightly for easier handling. Serve warm and enjoy the festival of flavors these bites bring!

Variations

Protein: Add crumbled bacon bits for a smoky flavor or shredded chicken for a heartier appetizer.
Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños for extra heat or mix in some sautéed bell peppers for additional color and texture.
Spices: Spice it up with a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick in the pimento cheese.

Cooking Notes

Be sure to watch the phyllo cups closely as they can burn quickly if left in the oven too long.
If using homemade pimento cheese, allow it to chill for a few hours before use for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These bites pair perfectly with a crisp white wine or a festive sparkling beverage.
Serve them on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a festive touch.

Tips

To save time, prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the bites.
If you have leftover filling, consider topping crackers with it for an easy snack!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving (1-2 bites)
Protein: 4g
Sodium: Varies based on cheese and jelly used

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pimento cheese?

Absolutely! Store-bought pimento cheese can save time and still taste delicious. Just choose a brand you enjoy.

How can I make these bites gluten-free?

Look for gluten-free phyllo cups or alternatives made with gluten-free ingredients.

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling a day ahead, but it’s best to bake them fresh right before serving for optimal taste and texture.

What else can I serve with Pimento Cheese Bites?

These bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and spreads like a creamy ranch or a fresh salsa for added variety!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christmas Pimento Cheese Bites bring a festive flair to your holiday gatherings. With their delectable combination of creamy pimento cheese and sweet red pepper jelly nestled in crispy phyllo cups, they are sure to please every palate. Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, they make the ideal appetizer to kick off any celebration. We hope you enjoy trying this recipe and consider it a staple for your holiday get-togethers. Share your experiences in the comments below, and feel free to explore your own twist on these flavor-packed bites!