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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with a Sweet-Spicy Surprise

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers blend crispy and creamy for a delightful snack, featuring a rich cheddar base and a sweet-spicy hot pepper jelly surprise.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 24 appetizers
Course: Appetizers
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
For the Topping
  • ½ teaspoon hot pepper jelly for filling
  • to taste fresh thyme or parsley optional garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • handheld mixer
  • Cookie scoop
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat together until smooth and creamy—about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Incorporate shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mixture. Stir until fully integrated.
  3. Gradually add all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Stir gently until a soft dough starts to form.
  4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Scoop about 1-inch balls of dough and place on the prepared baking sheet with space between them.
  7. Press down in the center of each dough ball with your thumb to create an indentation.
  8. Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of hot pepper jelly.
  9. Bake for 13-15 minutes until edges are golden brown.
  10. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1appetizerCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These appetizers can be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 baking blend. Store uneaten appetizers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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