Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread
Looking for a unique and savory twist to your cookie repertoire? Look no further! Our Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread Cookies are a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and a hint of spice. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating these delectable treats. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let’s dive into the world of savory cookies that are perfect for any gathering.
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Ingredients for Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread Cookies:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lightly beaten egg | 1 |
| Cold butter (cubed) | 8 tablespoons |
| Grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese | 2 cups |
| Jalapeño peppers (finely minced) | 2-3 |
Mixing and Shaping the Dough:
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt until well combined. This sets the base for your savory shortbread.
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Incorporating Butter
Next, it’s time to add a rich texture. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles dry crumbs. This step ensures a buttery and crumbly consistency in your cookies.
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Adding the Flavor
Give your cookies a kick by stirring in the beaten egg, grated cheese, and minced jalapeños. This combination creates a harmonious blend of cheesy and spicy notes.
Chilling the Dough
Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour. This crucial step enhances the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle.
Baking Process:
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F, getting it ready for the transformation of your dough into golden delights.
Shaping and Baking
Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a greased or lined baking sheet, ensuring adequate spacing. Flatten each ball using a mug or jar to achieve the desired thickness. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
Cooling and Serving
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread Cookies are a versatile treat, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Serve them at your next gathering and watch as they become an instant favorite!
Personal Experience:
Having experimented with various cookie recipes, I can attest to the unique and addictive nature of these Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread Cookies. The combination of savory cheese and a hint of spice takes your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread Cookies:
- Optimal Chilling: Ensure you refrigerate the dough for the recommended hour. This enhances the flavors and makes the dough easy to work with.
- Uniform Shaping: Consistency in shaping ensures even baking. Use a mug or jar for flattening to achieve uniform thickness.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your spice preference. Start with two and add more for an extra kick.
