What are good hot appetizers?

Hot appetizers that consistently impress include: Baked cheese dips (like gouda or spinach-artichoke) Stuffed mushrooms Warm crostini with whipped cheese Mini meatballs or sausage bites Cheese-stuffed puff pastry twists For the cheese lovers, our Skillet Baked Burrata or Smoked Gouda Dip are perfect hot appetizer choices.

What to serve with hot cheese?

Warm cheese pairs wonderfully with: Sliced baguette or sourdough Crostini and breadsticks Raw veggies like peppers and carrots Apple or pear slices Roasted nuts and fruit preserves For sweet-savory balance, try our Baked Brie with Fig Jam .

How do you warm cheese?

There are a few effective ways: Bake it in the oven for a gooey, bubbly texture Pan-sear firm cheeses like halloumi or burrata Broil for fast, golden finishes Warm gently on the stove for dips and spreads Avoid microwaving unless necessary — it can change the texture.

What is the most retro chic appetizer meet cheese dreams?

A top retro-meets-chic contender? Baked brie in puff pastry with sweet jam or honey — elegant, indulgent, and deeply nostalgic. Other options: cheese fondue, herbed cheese balls, or stuffed crostini. Try our updated classic Hot Honey Feta for a bold, spicy-sweet twist on retro cheese love.

Can warm cheese appetizers be made ahead of time?

Yes! Most can be fully or partially prepped in advance: Dips can be assembled and stored up to 3 days Brie en croûte can be wrapped and refrigerated Goat cheese spreads can be made and rewarmed See our Whipped Goat Cheese Dip for a perfect prep-ahead pick.

What type of cheese melts best for appetizers?

Top melters include: Brie : smooth and gooey Mozzarella : stretchy and mild Gouda : rich and velvety (especially smoked) Fontina : buttery and perfect for fondue Goat cheese : softens well when whipped Avoid overly aged or dry cheeses, as they may separate or become gritty when heated.

Warm Cheese Appetizers – The Best 5 Melty Recipes & Tips

Description

Baked hot honey feta is a warm cheese appetizer that balances creamy, salty feta with a sweet and spicy homemade honey drizzle. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

1 block feta cheese (about 7 oz)

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper

Fresh thyme (optional)

Toasted bread or crackers for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place the block of feta in a small baking dish or oven-safe ramekin.

3. Drizzle olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with pepper and red pepper flakes.

4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese softens and starts to brown at the edges.

5. Remove from oven and drizzle hot honey generously over the warm feta.

6. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

7. Serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers.

Notes

Use foil under the dish to make cleanup easier.

For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños before baking.

Homemade hot honey: mix 2 tbsp honey with 1/2 tsp chili flakes and warm slightly.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean