Cream cheese capsicum dippers

Cream Cheese Capsicum Dippers are a quick and creamy appetizer featuring the smooth blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and the freshness of red pepper and lemon zest. Perfect for serving with veggies or crackers at any gathering.

15 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 cup cream cheese
1/3 cup sour cream
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup red pepper

Cream Cheese Capsicum Dippers are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that's perfect for gatherings or a light snack. Combining the smoothness of cream cheese with the zing of lemon zest and the vibrant flavors of red pepper, these dippers are sure to impress. Enjoy them with a variety of fresh vegetables, crackers, or on their own for a tasty treat.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Finely chop the red pepper.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Zest the lemon to obtain 2 tablespoons of lemon zest.

2. Mix the Base:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend these ingredients until they are smooth and well combined.

3. Add Flavors:
Stir in the lemon zest and minced garlic until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. Incorporate the Red Pepper:
Gently fold in the finely chopped red pepper. Make sure it’s evenly mixed to ensure every dip gets a bit of that delightful crunch and flavor.

5. Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling the mixture allows the flavors to meld together and makes the dip firmer and easier to serve.

6. Serve:
Once chilled, transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Serve it with your choice of dippers such as crackers, sliced vegetables (like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots), or even toasted bread.

Cream Cheese Capsicum Dippers are a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that's simple to prepare and customize. With a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your appetizer repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with different dippers and additional spices to find your perfect combination.

Cream cheese capsicum dippers FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover Cream Cheese Capsicum Dippers?

Leftover Cream Cheese Capsicum Dippers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.

How can I make Cream Cheese Capsicum Dippers vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese, use a vegan mayonnaise, and a non-dairy sour cream alternative. Ensure that any additional flavorings also suit a vegan diet.

What can I use instead of red pepper in this recipe?

If you don't have red pepper, you can use finely chopped green bell pepper or even jalapeño for a spicier kick. Just ensure it’s finely chopped to maintain a similar texture.

How long should I chill the dip before serving?

Chill the dip for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together and improves its texture.

How do I know when the dip is the right consistency?

The dip should be smooth and creamy, easy to scoop but firm enough to hold a shape. If it seems too thick, you can add a little more sour cream or mayonnaise to adjust the consistency.

Tips:

- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to make it easier to blend with the other ingredients.

- Finely chop the red pepper for a smoother texture and more evenly distributed flavor.

- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

- Make the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors meld together more deeply.

- Serve with a variety of dippers such as sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even toasted pita bread for added variety.

Nutrition per serving

12 Servings
Calories 72kcal
Protein 1.75g
Carbohydrates 2.18g
Fiber 0.08g
Sugar 1.47g
Fat 7g

Cream cheese capsicum dippers