Introduction:
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are a perfect combination of savory and sweet.
The crispy, cheesy base paired with the spicy, tangy kick from the hot pepper jelly creates a bite-sized treat that’s sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these appetizers are ideal for holiday parties, game nights, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1/4 cup hot pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Dough:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add Butter and Egg:
Add the softened butter and egg to the dry ingredients.
Mix until the dough comes together and forms a thick, sticky ball
Shape Dough:
Roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Create Thumbprint:
Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press a small indentation in the center of each dough ball to create a “thumbprint.”
Fill with Jelly:
Spoon about a teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each indentation, filling it almost to the top.
Bake: Bake the appetizers in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted.
Cool: Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!
Description:
These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are a delightful blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, creating a rich, flavorful dough. The hot pepper jelly adds a sweet and spicy contrast that complements the cheese perfectly. The thumbprint shape allows for a generous amount of jelly to sit in the center, making each bite a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. These little treats are a great way to impress guests with minimal effort.
Tips:
For an extra cheesy flavor, add a bit of cream cheese or mozzarella to the dough.
If you prefer a milder option, substitute the hot pepper jelly with a sweet fruit jelly like raspberry or apricot.
Make sure the dough is firm enough so that the thumbprint holds its shape while baking. If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes before shaping.
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Variations:
Spicy Variation: If you like more heat, use a habanero pepper jelly or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
Cheese Variations: Swap out the sharp cheddar for gouda, fontina, or even a blue cheese for a more distinct flavor.
Herb Variations: Add some finely chopped herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, to the dough for an added fresh taste.
Corrections:
If you find that the dough is too crumbly, add a little more butter to bring it together.
If the jelly overflows while baking, simply use less jelly per thumbprint to avoid mess.
Adjust baking time based on your oven. Some ovens may cook faster, so keep an eye on the appetizers as they bake.
Enjoy:
These cheesy, spicy appetizers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event! They pair beautifully with wine, cocktails, or even a refreshing soda. Enjoy the balance of rich, cheesy flavor with the zing of hot pepper jelly in every bite!