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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are delightful bite-sized snacks featuring a rich blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, encased in a buttery dough, and topped with a sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly. Perfect for parties and gatherings, they offer a fantastic balance of creamy, cheesy flavors with a hint of heat, garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Dough

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Topping and Garnish

  • 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
  • Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese and Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
  2. Add Cheddar Cheese: Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese thoroughly until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the butter and cream cheese mixture.
  3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using) to the mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up, which will make it easier to handle and shape.
  5. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  6. Shape the Dough Balls: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion during baking.
  7. Create Thumbprints: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indentation into the center of each dough ball, being careful not to press all the way through.
  8. Fill with Hot Pepper Jelly: Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint indent.
  9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden brown.
  10. Cool and Garnish: Allow the appetizers to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For a milder flavor, substitute hot pepper jelly with apricot or red pepper jelly.
  • Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Do not overfill thumbprints to prevent jelly from spilling over during baking.
  • These appetizers can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add jelly and bake before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy thumbprint appetizers, hot pepper jelly snacks, party appetizers, bite-sized cheese snacks, savory appetizers

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/cheesy-thumbprint-appetizers-with-hot-pepper-jelly-recipe/