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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Spicy Jelly Bliss

Impress your guests with Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers, featuring a perfect blend of cheese and spicy jelly in a golden, buttery dough.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 24 appetizers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese softened
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter softened
  • 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese or pepper jack for added heat
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free blend
  • ½ teaspoon Salt can be reduced or omitted
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional)
For the Filling
  • ½ teaspoon Hot Pepper Jelly or alternative varieties like jalapeño
For Garnish
  • Fresh Thyme or Parsley (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Refrigerator
  • Oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese, followed by flour, salt, and garlic powder, mixing until soft dough forms.
  3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Scoop chilled dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Press a small well into the center of each ball using your thumb.
  7. Spoon hot pepper jelly into each indentation.
  8. Bake for 13-15 minutes until edges are golden brown.
  9. Cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  10. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 2appetizersCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Can be made 2 days ahead and reheated. Unbaked dough balls can be frozen for easier preparation.

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