Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers
These cheesy thumbprint appetizers feature a creamy cheese blend topped with spicy hot pepper jelly, offering an elegant yet easy-to-make party bite that’s sure to impress your guests.
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon for creating thumbprints
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup hot pepper jelly for topping
- Fresh herbs parsley or chives, optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and shredded cheddar until smooth and creamy.
- Add all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; stir until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls; place on baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Using your thumb or a spoon, press gently into the center of each ball to create a thumbprint.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and fill each thumbprint with hot pepper jelly.
- Return to oven for 2-3 minutes to warm the jelly.
- Allow appetizers to cool slightly; garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for flavor variations.
- Use gluten-free or almond flour for gluten-free options.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or basil for an herby twist.
- Choose low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.