Description

These cheesy thumbprint appetizers are a perfect blend of savory cheddar goodness and the sweet, spicy kick of hot pepper jelly. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick and easy snack, these little bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re buttery, cheesy, and have just the right amount of zing to keep everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

• For the dough:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the topping:
• 1/4 cup hot pepper jelly

Preparation Method

Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix with a spatula or electric mixer until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

Add the garlic powder and salt to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.

Gradually add the flour to the cheese mixture, stirring after each addition. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should hold together when pressed but not be sticky.

Shape the Thumbprints:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.

Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press down in the center of each dough ball to create a small indentation. This will later hold the hot pepper jelly.

Bake the Appetizers:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the thumbprints are lightly golden.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the thumbprints cool slightly on the tray.

Add the Pepper Jelly:
Once the thumbprints have cooled slightly but are still warm, use a small spoon to fill each indentation with a dollop of hot pepper jelly. The warmth will help the jelly settle into the center.

Serve:
Transfer the thumbprints to a serving platter. They can be served warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for any occasion.

Tips and Conclusion

Tips:
For a spicier kick, use extra-hot pepper jelly or add a pinch of chili flakes to the jelly before filling.
If you don’t have hot pepper jelly, you can substitute with your favorite jam or chutney for a milder flavor.
These thumbprints can be made ahead of time. Simply bake the dough, store the thumbprints in an airtight container, and add the jelly just before serving.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making them ideal for any gathering. Their buttery base and zesty topping are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Pair them with a chilled glass of white wine or your favorite cocktail, and let the compliments roll in. Enjoy! 🎉🧀🔥