Underwood Holiday Bells
Underwood Holiday Bells are savory, festive cheese and ham spreads with a hint of spice and peppers, perfect for holiday gatherings and served with crackers and vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, deviled ham, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the finely chopped green and red bell peppers.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with crackers and vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the Underwood ham with another canned meat spread or even finely chopped cooked ham for a homemade touch. If you're looking to add a bit of sweetness, consider mixing in some finely chopped sweet pickles. This dip can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop further.
Serving Suggestions
This dip is perfect for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. Consider serving it alongside other crowd-pleasers like Bacon Twists or Ham Stuffed Mushrooms to create a delicious appetizer spread that will delight your guests. For a complete meal, serve with a light salad or fruit platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, allow the dip to come to room temperature and stir well before serving. If it has thickened, you can add a splash of cream or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Underwood Holiday Bells contains roughly 320 calories, with 11g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (204% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (147% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 24g 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 use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. However, this will change the dip's texture, making it lighter and creamier. You could also consider using a blend of cream cheese and cheddar for added depth.
How spicy is this dip, and can I reduce the heat?
The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick, but if you're looking for a milder flavor, you can omit it entirely or reduce the amount. For those who enjoy spice, consider adding diced jalapeños for an extra punch without overwhelming the other flavors.
Can I prepare this dip in advance?
Absolutely! This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Preparing it a day in advance is recommended, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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).