Imagine crafting a delectable snack that seamlessly blends savory and spicy flavors—Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly.
Curious about how the flavors harmonize in this dish? There’s more to uncover in this culinary journey.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 sheet parchment paper
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon
- 1 set measuring cups
- 1 set measuring spoons
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly, you can follow this timeline:
- Reading & Preparation (5 minutes)
- Read through the entire recipe to understand the steps and gather all ingredients and equipment needed.
- Prep Work (15 minutes)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
- Rolling & Shaping (10 minutes)
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press a thumbprint into the center of each ball to create a small well.
- Filling (5 minutes)
- Fill each well with a small amount of hot pepper jelly.
- Baking (12 minutes)
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the appetizers for 12 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Resting (10 minutes)
- Remove the appetizers from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until a dough forms.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Press a thumbprint into the center of each ball creating a small well.
Fill each well with a small amount of hot pepper jelly.
Bake the appetizers for 12 minutes until the edges are golden.
Remove from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to complement the cheesy and spicy flavors.
- Charcuterie Board: Include these appetizers on a charcuterie board with cured meats and olives for a stunning presentation.
- Fresh Veggies: Pair with a platter of fresh vegetables like carrots and celery for a revitalizing contrast.
- Herb Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for guests who enjoy a dipping option.
Storage
To store Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers, place them in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to three days.
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature for best texture.
Freezing
To freeze Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container.
Defrost before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers, place them on a baking sheet.
Warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are a delightful addition to any gathering.
They combine the savory flavors of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of hot pepper jelly.
The balance of textures and flavors makes them an irresistible treat for guests.
The preparation is straightforward, and the ingredients are simple, making them a convenient choice for hosts.
Make sure the dough is well-mixed and the thumbprints are gently pressed to achieve the perfect consistency.
As they bake, the aroma of cheese fills the kitchen, creating anticipation for the delicious bites to come.
Once out of the oven, allow them to rest for 10 minutes.
This step guarantees the appetizers hold their shape and the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve them warm, and watch them quickly disappear from the platter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese Instead of Cheddar?
Absolutely, you can substitute cheddar with your choice of cheese. Try gouda for a creamy flair or pepper jack for added heat. Make certain it’s freshly grated for best texture. Adjust the amount to maintain the recipe’s balance.
Is There a Substitute for Hot Pepper Jelly?
You can substitute hot pepper jelly with a blend of 1/4 cup apricot preserves and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. This maintains the sweet and spicy balance. Adjust cayenne to your preference for a zestier kick.
How Can I Make These Appetizers Gluten-Free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal measure. Confirm your cheeses and hot pepper jelly are certified gluten-free. These changes maintain the appetizer’s delightful texture and flavor, pleasing gluten-sensitive guests. Enjoy!
What Wine Pairs Well With These Appetizers?
You’ll want to pair these appetizers with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a vibrant Riesling. Their acidity balances the richness of the cheese and complements the spicy-sweet notes of the hot pepper jelly perfectly. Enjoy!
Can I Prepare the Dough in Advance and Refrigerate Overnight?
You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Make certain it’s tightly wrapped to prevent drying. This advance prep enhances flavors, and chilled dough is easier to handle, creating perfect thumbprints effortlessly.
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers With Hot Pepper Jelly
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Sheet Parchment paper
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Set Measuring cups
- 1 Set Measuring spoons
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until a dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press a thumbprint into the center of each ball creating a small well.
- Fill each well with a small amount of hot pepper jelly.
- Bake the appetizers for 12 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.
