Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly
A perfect blend of creamy, savory cheese and sweet, spicy hot pepper jelly in a bite-sized, flaky thumbprint appetizer. These are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Hot pepper jelly | 1/2 cup |
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix until the dough comes together. You can use your hands to knead the dough gently if needed.
- Shape the Appetizers
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press a well into the center of each ball.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Add the Jelly
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
- Carefully spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into the center of each thumbprint.
- Return the appetizers to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the jelly is bubbly and the thumbprints are golden.
- Cool and Serve
- Let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
