Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe
These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are a delightful bite-sized treat featuring a buttery and cheesy dough filled with sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these savory snacks combine sharp cheddar and cream cheese with a hint of garlic, baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 24 appetizers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Dough
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Filling and Garnish
- 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring an even base for the dough.
- Add the cheddar cheese: Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese thoroughly until fully combined, creating a rich and flavorful dough.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using) to the cheese mixture. Stir until a cohesive dough forms.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Form dough balls: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Create thumbprints: Press the center of each dough ball gently with your thumb or finger, creating an indentation to hold the jelly.
- Fill with jelly: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint indentation carefully.
- Bake the appetizers: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese dough is set.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the appetizers to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder option, substitute hot pepper jelly with a sweet pepper jelly or apricot preserves.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth dough texture.
- You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight wrapped tightly.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
- These appetizers pair well with cocktails or as part of a cheese platter.
Keywords: cheesy appetizers, thumbprint cookies, hot pepper jelly appetizers, party snacks, savory appetizers, cheese bites
