Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe

Introduction

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are a perfect blend of savory and sweet with a spicy kick. Crispy, cheesy dough cups filled with vibrant jelly make for an irresistible party snack or appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup hot pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, grated cheddar, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
2. Step 2: Add the cold, diced butter and mix with a pastry cutter or food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Step 3: Knead the mixture gently until a dough ball forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Step 5: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Step 6: Press an indentation into the center of each dough ball using your thumb or the back of a small spoon.
7. Step 7: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each indentation, taking care not to overfill.
8. Step 8: Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
9. Step 9: Let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely if desired.
10. Step 10: Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or onion powder to the dough.
• Substitute the cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicier bite.
• Use different flavors of jelly, such as apricot or raspberry, for a unique twist.
• Make the dough a day ahead and keep it refrigerated to save time on the day of serving.

Storage

Store leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up before serving. These are best enjoyed fresh but can be enjoyed cold as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough without a food processor?

Yes, you can use a pastry cutter or two forks to blend the cold butter into the flour and cheese mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Is it possible to freeze these appetizers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked appetizers. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 57 reviews

Delight in these Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with a spicy kick from hot pepper jelly. Featuring a sharp cheddar-infused flaky dough with a sweet and spicy jelly center, they are perfect for parties or as a savory snack. Crispy on the edges and soft in the center, these bite-sized appetizers offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 appetizers 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup hot pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, grated sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Add the cold, diced unsalted butter and blend using a pastry cutter or a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Knead gently with your hands until a dough ball forms, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Preheat and Shape: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for slight spreading during baking.
3. Make the Thumbprints: Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball, creating a small well to hold the filling without reaching the edges.
4. Fill with Jelly: Carefully spoon about ½ teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each indentation. Avoid overfilling to prevent the jelly from spilling during baking.
5. Bake and Cool: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the appetizers for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the dough turn golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.
6. Serve and Enjoy: These delicious cheesy thumbprints can be served warm or at room temperature. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

• Optional spices like garlic powder and cayenne pepper add extra flavor and a mild heat, but can be omitted if preferred.
• Keep the butter cold to ensure a flaky texture in the dough.
• Do not overfill the thumbprints with jelly to avoid spillage during baking.
• These appetizers can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
• Substitute sharp cheddar with other aged cheeses like gouda or parmesan for flavor variations.

Keywords: cheesy appetizers, thumbprint cookies, hot pepper jelly, party snacks, savory bites, baked appetizers, cheddar cheese appetizers