📝 Introduction
These Spicy Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Cheese Bites are everything you want in a snack: creamy cheese centers wrapped in a crunchy coating, paired with a burst of sweet heat from pepper jelly. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something crispy and melty, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
The air fryer gives you that deep-fried texture without the mess or grease, and the pepper jelly adds a unique Southern-inspired twist. You can make them ahead, freeze them, and pop them in the air fryer whenever the craving hits!
🧾 Ingredients
🧀 For the Cheese Bites:
- 8 oz block of mozzarella or cheddar (or cheese of choice), cut into 3/4-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup spicy red or green pepper jelly
- 24 wonton wrappers or small squares of puff pastry
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
🍞 For Optional Breading (extra crunch):
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
👨🍳 Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Prep the Cheese & Jelly
- Cut your cheese into bite-sized cubes.
- Spoon about 1/4 teaspoon of pepper jelly onto each cube of cheese, or spread a tiny amount inside the wrapper before placing cheese.
- Be careful not to overfill—just enough to give a spicy-sweet hit without leaking during cooking.
🔹 Step 2: Wrap the Bites
Using Wonton Wrappers:
- Place a cheese cube with pepper jelly in the center of a wrapper.
- Moisten the edges with water or egg wash.
- Fold into a triangle or bring corners together like a parcel (like mini dumplings).
- Press tightly to seal—no gaps or they may burst.
Using Puff Pastry:
- Cut into small squares (about 2.5 x 2.5 inches).
- Place cheese and jelly in the center, fold corners to seal.
- Pinch edges tightly and brush with egg wash.
🔹 Optional Step: Breading for Extra Crunch
- Dip sealed bites in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Press lightly to ensure coating sticks.
- Place on a tray to chill for 10 minutes (helps them hold shape).
🔹 Step 3: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the basket with oil spray.
- Place cheese bites in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway if needed, until golden brown and crispy.
- Keep a close eye—cheese melts fast!
🔹 Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving (they’re hot!).
- Serve with extra pepper jelly for dipping or even ranch for contrast.
🔄 Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different cheeses: brie, pepper jack, smoked gouda, or cream cheese cubes.
- Add jalapeño slices, bacon bits, or chopped pecans for extra flavor.
- Swap in fig jam, apricot preserves, or hot honey for variety.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and freeze the bites (uncooked) on a tray, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
2. Do I need to bread them?
No, but the breading gives an extra crunchy texture. Wonton wrappers or puff pastry on their own will still crisp up nicely.
3. What type of pepper jelly should I use?
Use store-bought or homemade pepper jelly—red, green, or even habanero-based. Just make sure it’s thick, not runny, to prevent leaks.
4. What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheeses that melt well but hold their shape a bit—like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda. Avoid very soft cheeses unless frozen first.
5. Can I deep-fry instead of air fry?
Yes. Heat oil to 350°F and fry for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
6. How do I prevent the bites from bursting?
- Seal edges well
- Don’t overfill with jelly
- Chill before cooking
- Cook at moderate air fryer temp (375°F is ideal)
🌟 Pro Tips
- Freeze cheese cubes for 10–15 minutes before assembling to slow melting.
- Spray bites lightly with oil for a deep-fried-style finish.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—work in batches for even crisping.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, airier crunch.
Would you like:
- A printable version of this recipe?
- A homemade pepper jelly recipe?
- A version using cream cheese & bacon?
Let me know, and I’ll happily send it over!
