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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 appetizers (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cheesy appetizers, finger food, hot pepper jelly, party snacks, cheese bites, savory appetizers, easy baking recipes
