Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are a delightful bite-sized treat perfect for parties or casual snacking. These savory snacks combine a buttery dough with rich cheese and a sweet-spicy pepper jelly filling for a wonderful flavor contrast.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup pepper jelly
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the shredded cheese, flour, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Step 2: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Step 4: Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of pepper jelly.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the dough.
- Try swapping pepper jelly with fig jam or apricot preserves for a different fruity twist.
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese taste or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for meltiness and flavor.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days and gently reheat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Can I freeze these appetizers?
Yes, freeze the shaped dough balls without jelly in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before adding jelly and baking.
PrintCheesy Thumbprint Appetizers Recipe
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are delightful bite-sized snacks featuring a buttery dough base filled with sweet and tangy pepper jelly, perfect for entertaining or a savory snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 appetizers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Filling
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, softened butter, and flour. Mix well until a smooth dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated for a consistent texture.
- Form the Dough Balls: Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
- Create Indentations: Gently press the center of each dough ball with your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small well or thumbprint, careful not to press all the way through the dough.
- Fill with Pepper Jelly: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of pepper jelly into each indentation, filling the wells without overfilling to avoid spills during baking.
- Bake the Appetizers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the stuffed dough balls for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesy thumbprints to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicier kick, try using a hot pepper jelly instead of the regular variety.
- These appetizers can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container; reheat briefly before serving.
- If you prefer, add a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs to the dough for added seasoning.
Keywords: cheesy appetizers, thumbprint cookies, pepper jelly snacks, bite-sized snacks, party appetizers
