Description
Craving a delightful appetizer that balances savory cheese with a hint of sweetness and spice? Look no further than these Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly. This easy recipe features a buttery cheese dough filled with fiery-sweet jelly, making them perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive parties. With crispy edges and a creamy center, each bite is an explosion of flavor that will impress your guests. Plus, you can prepare the dough in advance and bake just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste. Whether you’re entertaining or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cheesy bites are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
- 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add flour, salt, and garlic powder; mix until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet with space in between.
- Press your thumb into each ball to create an indentation and fill with hot pepper jelly (about 1/2 teaspoon each).
- Bake for 13–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow cooling slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 appetizers (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg