Description
These cheesy thumbprint appetizers combine savory sharp Cheddar with a hint of cayenne and a sweet-spicy hot pepper jelly center. They are perfect bite-sized snacks for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, mix the softened butter and shredded Cheddar cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Add the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press a small indentation into the center of each ball.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool for 2–3 minutes.
- Spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into the center indentation of each appetizer.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper.
- Different pepper jellies such as jalapeño or red chili jelly can be used for variation.
- These appetizers can be baked ahead and filled with jelly just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat briefly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 appetizer
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
