Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly
Delightful cheesy appetizers featuring a spicy kick from hot pepper jelly, perfect for any gathering.
Servings: 24 pieces
Calories: 100kcal
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100 g)
- 4 oz cream cheese softened (about 115 g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (about 113 g)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (about 120 g)
- 1/4 tsp salt (about 1 g)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder optional (about 1 g)
Filling and Garnish
- 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly (about 100 g)
- to taste fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully combined with the cream cheese and butter mixture.
- Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using) to the cheesy mix. Stir until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is chilling.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press a thumbprint into the center of each dough ball.
- Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the appetizers are golden brown.
- Allow the appetizers to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley.
Notes
These appetizers can be made ahead of time, refrigerated, or even frozen! Serve them warm or at room temperature with assorted crackers and vegetables.