CHEESY THUMBPRINT APPETIZERS WITH HOT PEPPER JELLY
These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect bite-sized party treat! Savory cheese cookies with a spicy-sweet jelly center create a fun and flavorful twist on a classic thumbprint cookie.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat the cheddar cheese, butter, and cream cheese until creamy. Add the egg yolk and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
Shape the Appetizers:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make a small indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb or a spoon.
Fill with Jelly:
- Spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into each indentation.
Bake:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Make Ahead:
Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to shape and bake. Customizing the Flavor:
Swap the hot pepper jelly for fig, apricot, or your favourite chutney for different flavour twists. Serving Suggestions:
Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or as a festive starter before dinner. Allergy-Friendly Options:
Use a plant-based cheese and butter alternative for a vegetarian, dairy-free option. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slightly before serving for best taste.
Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to shape and bake. Customizing the Flavor:
Swap the hot pepper jelly for fig, apricot, or your favourite chutney for different flavour twists. Serving Suggestions:
Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or as a festive starter before dinner. Allergy-Friendly Options:
Use a plant-based cheese and butter alternative for a vegetarian, dairy-free option. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slightly before serving for best taste.