Description
Delightful cheesy thumbprint appetizers with hot pepper jelly bring zesty southwestern flair to party spreads. Guests will savor crisp cheese pastry kissed with spicy-sweet pepper jam, creating irresistible bite-sized elegance for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesy Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
Flour and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Binding and Filling Ingredients:
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by setting the temperature to 375F (190C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Create a seasoned flour mixture by combining flour, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika in a medium mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Craft the cheese dough by vigorously beating butter, cheddar, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Introduce the egg yolk and water, blending until completely integrated.
- Gradually fold the spiced flour mixture into the cheese base, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. Ensure no dry patches remain.
- Portion the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, arranging them with ample spacing on the prepared baking sheets. Gently press an indentation into the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
- Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn a delicate golden hue. While still warm, reinforce the indentations using the back of a spoon.
- Carefully fill each thumbprint depression with a dollop of hot pepper jelly, then return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to slightly warm the jelly.
- Allow the appetizers to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Let cool completely, then serve at room temperature or slightly warm for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Customize heat levels by selecting mild or extra-spicy pepper jelly to match personal taste preferences.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, gouda, or gruyere for unique flavor profiles.
- Ensure butter is softened at room temperature to create smooth, consistent dough that blends easily.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and achieve even browning on appetizer bottoms.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 139
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 106 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg