1. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and just three ingredients.
2. Sweet & Spicy Flavor : The combination of creamy sausage, tangy cream cheese, and sweet-spicy pepper jelly is irresistible.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for breakfast, brunch, parties, or game day snacks.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready—perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
5. Customizable : Use different types of jelly or sausage to suit your taste.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes 12–15 bites

• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild, hot, or sage-flavored)
• 8 oz block of cream cheese , softened and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Form the Sausage Cups

1. Divide the sausage into 12–15 equal portions (about 1–1.5 tablespoons each).
2. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disc about 3 inches wide.
3. Press each sausage disc into the bottom and up the sides of a greased muffin tin cavity or shape them into cups on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese

1. Place a small cube of cream cheese into the center of each sausage cup.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the sausage cups for 15–20 minutes , or until the sausage is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Add the Pepper Jelly

1. Spoon a teaspoon of pepper jelly over the cream cheese in each sausage cup. The heat from the sausage will slightly melt the jelly, creating a gooey, flavorful topping.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve warm as a hearty breakfast, brunch item, or appetizer.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Sausage Base : The savory, slightly spicy sausage provides a rich and flavorful foundation.
• Cream Cheese Magic : The creamy, tangy cream cheese balances the sweetness of the jelly.

• Pepper Jelly Kick : The jelly adds a sweet and spicy finish that ties everything together.

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Variations to Try

• Switch Up the Jelly : Use mango chutney, apricot preserves, or cranberry sauce instead of pepper jelly for a different flavor profile.
• Add Cheese : Top the cream cheese with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.
• Spice It Up : Use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes to the cream cheese for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option : This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for all dietary needs.
• Mini Version : Use mini muffin tins to create smaller, bite-sized appetizers.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Overfill : Keep the cream cheese and jelly portions small to prevent overflow during baking.
• Use Quality Ingredients : Choose high-quality sausage and pepper jelly for the best flavor.

• Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Romantic Touch : Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for elegance.
• Brunch Staple : Pair with scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
• Party Platter : Arrange the bites on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at gatherings.

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Final Thoughts

These Pepper Jelly Sausage Breakfast Bites are a celebration of bold, balanced flavors, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With their sweet, spicy, and savory layers, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your Turn! Have you ever made sausage bites or experimented with sweet-and-spicy flavor combinations? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🌶️