Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s as stunning as it is delicious, you’ve got to try this Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe. I absolutely love how the flaky puff pastry cradles tangy feta, sweet jam, and smoky roasted red peppers—it’s a flavor combo that surprises and delights every single time. These bites work beautifully for parties, casual get-togethers, or even a special weeknight treat when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

When I first tried this recipe, the balance between savory, sweet, and a little hint of heat really knocked my socks off. You’ll find that the chili oil adds just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the delicate flavors. Plus, the prettiness of these bites makes them a real winner for entertaining—people can’t help but reach for seconds!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe is really in how the ingredients play off each other—a flaky puff pastry base holds all the juicy, cheesy goodness topped with a drizzle of spicy chili oil that ties everything together. When shopping, look for good-quality feta and roasted red peppers; it makes a surprising difference.

• All-purpose flour: For dusting your surface so puff pastry doesn’t stick.
• Puff pastry: The flaky, buttery base that’s essential for those gorgeous bite-sized cups.
• Cooking spray: Makes sure your mini muffin tin doesn’t hold on to these tasty bites.
• Fig, apricot, or peach jam: Adds a lovely natural sweetness that contrasts the salty feta.
• Sliced shallots: For a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that brightens the bites.
• Roasted red peppers: Their smoky sweetness complements both jam and cheese beautifully.
• Feta cheese: The star of the show—salty and tangy, cut into bite-sized cubes.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Earthy herb notes that lift the flavors and add aroma.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings you need to balance everything.
• Lemon zest: A bright, citrusy finish that adds freshness.
• Chili oil: The final touch that brings warming spice and a glossy look.

Variations

I love making this Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe my own by switching up the jam or herbs depending on the season or mood. Feel free to get creative — that’s part of the fun!

• Variation: Using raspberry or cherry jam adds a different fruity twist I found my family went crazy for last Christmas.
• Diets: For a gluten-free version, puff pastry made with gluten-free flour works wonderfully.
• Heat level: Adjust chili oil or swap for a mild olive oil if you prefer less spice.
• Herbs: Try fresh oregano or basil instead of thyme for subtle flavor shifts that keep it interesting.

How to Make Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pastry and Muffin Tin

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s warming up, lightly flour your work surface—the puff pastry can be sticky, and a little flour helps prevent tearing. Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets just enough to smooth out any creases, then use a sharp chef’s knife to cut the dough into 24 even squares. I like to work quickly so the pastry stays cold—this helps it puff up beautifully when baking.

Step 2: Shape the Pastry Cups

Next, grease your 24-cup mini muffin tin really well with cooking spray to make sure nothing sticks. Press each pastry square gently into the muffin cups, allowing the edges to peep out just a bit. This little overhang gets golden and crispy during baking, making the perfect edible cup for all your fillings. Don’t worry about perfect edges—you’ll see how much this adds rustic charm to your bites.

Step 3: Fill With Flavor

Now comes the fun part — layering flavors. Start with a small spoonful of your chosen jam at the bottom of each pastry cup, just enough to add sweetness but not overpower. Then add some sliced shallots and a piece of that delicious roasted red pepper. Don’t be shy—each cup gets one cube of feta, fresh thyme leaves, and a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. I found that a light hand with the salt works best since the feta is quite salty on its own.

Step 4: Bake and Rest

Slide your muffin tin into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully puffed and golden brown all over. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks crisp and smells impossibly good. Once out of the oven, let the bites cool for 5 minutes—this resting time makes them easier to handle and helps the flavors meld.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Carefully pop the baked feta bites out of the tin and arrange them on a platter. Sprinkle with extra fresh thyme leaves and lemon zest for that fresh pop of brightness. Drizzle each bite generously with chili oil—you’ll find this step amps up the flavor and presentation tremendously. I’ve caught myself standing over the platter, stealing bites before guests arrive they’re that addictive!

How to Serve Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, I always go with extra fresh thyme leaves and a shower of lemon zest—these simple touches make the flavors pop and look so pretty. Sometimes, a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or toasted sesame seeds adds a fun crunch that surprises guests.

Side Dishes

These baked feta bites stand well on their own but I love pairing them with a crisp green salad or marinated olives for extra variety. A chilled glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon also makes a fantastic accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served these bites on a slate board with little bowls of extra jam, chili oil, and fresh herbs so guests can customize their bites. Another fun idea is to stack them on a tiered tray, which adds height and elegance to your appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. I find these bites keep well for up to 2 days but the pastry does lose some crispness.

Freezing

I’ve frozen unbaked filled bites before by arranging them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a zip-top bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is a lifesaver for prepping ahead of a party.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the bites into a preheated 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. This refreshes the crisp pastry and warms the filling nicely without turning soggy the way microwave reheating can.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe has become a bona fide favorite in my house—I love how it effortlessly combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just treating yourself, these bites never disappoint. I hope you have as much fun making (and eating) them as I do. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to for easy, elegant snacking!

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