Name: Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup hot pepper jelly (Adjust according to spice preference.); Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste (For garnish.)

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If you’re looking to impress your guests with a snack that’s equal parts comforting and exciting, these Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are an absolute must-try. Imagine buttery, sharp cheddar cheese cookies with a perfectly sweet and spicy dollop of hot pepper jelly nestled in their centers. Each bite bursts with a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and heat, making these appetizers not only addictive but also a fantastic conversation starter at any gathering. They’re simple to make, visually charming, and bursting with flavor in every single thumbprint.

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of texture and taste. From the creamy butter that holds everything together to the sharpness of the cheddar that flavors every bite, every component is simple yet essential.

All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the dough base, giving structure and a light crumbly texture.
Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup): Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth tender crumb.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings the bold, savory flavor that defines this appetizer.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle aromatic punch that complements the cheese perfectly.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances depth with a mild savory sweetness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the savory flavors and elevates the overall taste.
Hot pepper jelly (½ cup): The star ingredient, offering that delightful sweet-spicy contrast in each thumbprint.
Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color as a garnish.

How to Make Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures your appetizers bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine Butter and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened unsalted butter with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until creamy. This mixture is the backbone of your dough, bringing together buttery richness with cheesy boldness.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir the mixture until a soft dough forms. Handling the dough just enough to combine keeps the texture tender, so avoid overworking it.

Step 4: Shape the Dough Balls

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands, then arrange them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. This size is perfect for bite-sized indulgence and uniform baking.

Step 5: Create Thumbprint Indentations

Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down the center of each dough ball to create a small well. This is where the magic happens as it will hold that luscious hot pepper jelly.

Step 6: Fill with Hot Pepper Jelly

Fill each indentation with about half a teaspoon of your chosen hot pepper jelly. Adjust the amount if you prefer it spicier or milder, but this balance maintains the perfect contrast of flavors.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn a lovely golden brown, and the jelly is gently bubbling.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Remove the appetizers from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. For a final touch, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley to brighten the flavor and add a dash of green freshness.

How to Serve Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a subtle herbal note that perfectly complements the cheesy and spicy combo. If you want to experiment, finely chopped chives or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

These appetizers are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or a refreshing cucumber and dill yogurt dip. Bright, light sides help balance the richness and heat from the hot pepper jelly.

Creative Ways to Present

Think about serving these on a rustic wooden board with a selection of assorted cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing appetizer platter. You could also arrange them around a small bowl of extra hot pepper jelly for dipping, inviting guests to customize their flavor intensity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but this short storage keeps them tasting wonderful.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked dough balls on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh results.

Reheating

To reheat, place the appetizers in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes just until warm. Avoid the microwave to keep that delicious crispy edge; the oven will bring back all of the original textures beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of sharp cheddar?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives the cheese balls their classic bold flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or pepper jack for different tastes and spice levels.

How spicy is the hot pepper jelly?

The heat level depends on the brand and type of hot pepper jelly you choose. You can pick a mild or extra spicy version depending on your preference, or even try homemade jellies for a unique twist.

Are these appetizers gluten-free?

The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking and expect a similar texture with a slight variation.

Can these be made vegan?

Making these vegan requires substituting butter with a plant-based spread and choosing a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. Keep in mind the flavor will differ, but it’s a fun variation to try.

What is the best way to serve these at a party?

Serve them warm or at room temperature on a platter with small forks or toothpicks for easy grabbing. Offering extra hot pepper jelly on the side lets guests add a bit more kick if they desire.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring a flavorful and fun appetizer to your next gathering, you really can’t go wrong with these Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly. They’re simple, packed with incredible taste, and always a crowd-pleaser. So grab those ingredients, invite your friends over, and watch as these little bites steal the spotlight!

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 9 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 appetizers 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are a perfect savory and slightly spicy bite-sized treat. Featuring a buttery cheddar cheese dough with a burst of sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly in the center, they make an enticing appetizer for gatherings and parties. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, they bake to golden perfection with a delightful soft and cheesy texture accented by a touch of fresh parsley garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Dough

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt

Filling and Garnish

½ cup hot pepper jelly (Adjust according to spice preference.)
Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste (For garnish.)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
Mix Butter and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy and well combined, ensuring an even cheese distribution.
Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to the cheese mixture. Stir until a smooth dough forms. It should be easy to handle but not crumbly.
Shape Dough Balls: Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls, making sure they are uniform in size. Arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Create Indentations: With your thumb or the back of a spoon, press down in the center of each dough ball to create a small well for the jelly.
Fill with Jelly: Fill each indentation with about half a teaspoon of hot pepper jelly. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference but avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn lightly golden and the cheese is melted.
Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the appetizers cool slightly on the baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, colorful garnish before serving.

Notes

You can swap sharp cheddar for other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Adjust the amount of hot pepper jelly based on how spicy or sweet you want the appetizers.
Make sure the butter is properly softened for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
These appetizers are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
For a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American