Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly
These cheesy thumbprint appetizers are a delightful combination of rich cheese and spicy hot pepper jelly. They make for an impressive finger food at parties or gatherings, offering a wonderful balance of flavors between the cheesy base and the sweet-heat of the jelly.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cheese grater
- 1 teaspoon
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.
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Add the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to the cheese mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Fill each indentation with about half a teaspoon of hot pepper jelly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish before serving.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of hot pepper jelly according to your spice preference.
You can experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist on flavor.
These appetizers can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days before reheating them in the oven.