"Hot Jezebel"
A spicy, tangy cheese appetizer featuring apricot-pineapple preserves and horseradish, perfect for entertaining guests who enjoy bold flavors and easy-to-serve finger foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix apricot-pineapple preserves with drained horseradish, dry mustard, and black pepper.
- Can store the mixture in a tightly covered jar in the refrigerator for months.
- Slice cream cheese into thick slices and arrange in an attractive bowl, slightly separated or fanned.
- Pour about 1/2 cup of the preserve mixture over the sliced cream cheese.
- Serve with crackers and a spreader knife.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using prepared horseradish instead of drained for a stronger flavor. You can also substitute the apricot-pineapple preserves with peach or mango preserves if desired. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier slicing and serving. This dish can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making it perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, such as water crackers or baguette slices. You can also serve it alongside fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. Enhance your spread by including a fruit platter or cheese board alongside the Hot Jezebel. It makes a fantastic appetizer for parties or a delightful addition to a brunch, complementing dishes like Chili Cheese Quiche.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover preserve mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two months. The cream cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep any unused slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for a day or two. Reheat gently in the microwave if you prefer it warm, but it's delicious served cold as well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Hot Jezebel" contains roughly 80 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Ensure the preserves are free from gelatin, and check that the horseradish does not contain any animal products. This way, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly version of this delicious dip.
How spicy is this dip?
The spiciness of the dip largely depends on the amount of horseradish used. Drained horseradish provides a milder flavor, while un-drained offers more heat. You can adjust the amount based on your preference to create a dip that suits your taste, making it perfect for all spice tolerance levels.
What can I use instead of horseradish?
If you're looking for an alternative to horseradish, consider using wasabi paste for a similar heat profile. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a spicy kick without the distinct flavor of horseradish. Adjust based on your heat preference to keep the dip enjoyable for everyone.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).