Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect blend of savory, cheesy goodness and a touch of spicy sweetness. These delightful bite-sized treats are ideal for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a show-stopping appetizer. With their golden, crumbly texture and the pop of flavor from hot pepper jelly, they’re sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Entertaining: These appetizers are easy to make and look fancy on any platter.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich cheese and spicy-sweet jelly creates an unforgettable taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and bake just before serving.
• Customizable: Swap out the cheese or jelly flavor to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Salt
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Hot pepper jelly

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine grated cheddar, parmesan, butter, flour, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) until the mixture forms a dough.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press a small indentation into the center of each ball.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Fill each indentation with a small dollop of hot pepper jelly.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 24 appetizers, depending on the size.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Try using gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Jelly Flavors: Experiment with other jellies like apricot, raspberry, or habanero for varying levels of sweetness and heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Add Herbs: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the dough for an earthy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the appetizers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze these appetizers?

Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I use a different type of jelly?

Yes, feel free to substitute the hot pepper jelly with any jelly or preserve you like.

4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar works best, but you can experiment with other aged cheeses for a different flavor.

5. How do I prevent the dough from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape.

6. Can I make these spicier?

Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicier jelly will amp up the heat.

7. What can I serve alongside these appetizers?

Pair them with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a complete party spread.

8. Can I make them larger?

Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they cook evenly.

9. What should I do if the indentations close up during baking?

Gently press them again while they’re still warm to restore the shape.

10. How do I transport these to a party?

Place them in a single layer in an airtight container to keep them intact during transport.

Conclusion

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines rich, cheesy bites with a delightful hint of sweetness and spice. Perfect for any occasion, these appetizers are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snack game. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear from the platter in no time!

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