Introduction

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Spicy Pepper Jelly are a perfect bite-sized treat for any gathering. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender inside, with a sweet and spicy jelly center, they offer a delightful combination of flavors that will keep your guests coming back for more.

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Spicy Pepper Jelly Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups all-purpose flour
Hot pepper jelly (to taste)
Pinch of salt
Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
Pinch of onion powder (optional)
Herbs such as thyme or oregano (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix. If desired, add garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs at this stage for extra flavor.
Step 4: Roll small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indent in the center of each ball.
Step 5: Spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint, being careful not to overfill.
Step 6: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For an herby twist, add fresh finely chopped thyme or oregano to the dough.
If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute the sharp cheddar with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack.
Try different flavored pepper jellies such as habanero or jalapeño for varying spice levels.
Make the dough ahead of time and chill it for easier shaping.

Storage

Store any leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a low oven or microwave before serving to restore their crispness and warmth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the thumbprints a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and add the pepper jelly just before baking.

What can I use if I don’t have hot pepper jelly?

If you don’t have hot pepper jelly, you can substitute with any fruit preserves or jams mixed with a small amount of chili flakes to add a sweet and spicy contrast.

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Spicy Pepper Jelly Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 125 reviews

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Spicy Pepper Jelly Delight are savory bite-sized treats featuring a buttery cheddar cheese dough filled with a sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these golden, flaky appetizers combine rich cheese flavors with a tantalizing kick of pepper jelly, baked to a bubbly finish.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 appetizers 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
Pinch of onion powder (optional)
Herbs such as thyme or oregano (optional)

Filling

Hot pepper jelly (to taste)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the appetizers.
Mix Butter and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
Form Dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt (along with optional garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs if using) to the butter-cheese mixture. Stir carefully until a soft dough forms, taking care not to overmix to keep the texture tender.
Shape Dough Balls: Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Create Thumbprints: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press a small indent into the center of each dough ball to hold the filling.
Add Pepper Jelly: Spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint indent, ensuring not to overfill to avoid spilling during baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly, indicating they are cooked through.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

For added flavor, incorporate herbs like thyme or oregano into the dough mixture.
Do not overmix the dough to ensure a tender, flaky texture.
Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Adjust the amount of hot pepper jelly to your preferred level of spiciness and sweetness.
These appetizers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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