Print

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers: Easy Hot Pepper Jelly Party Snack

cheesy thumbprint appetizers - featured image
Print Recipe

These cheesy thumbprint appetizers feature a buttery, tender dough packed with cheddar and cream cheese, topped with a dollop of sweet-hot pepper jelly. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or any gathering, they’re quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup (25g) freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • About 1/2 cup (120ml) hot pepper jelly
  • Extra shredded cheddar or parmesan, for sprinkling (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or thyme), finely chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy and well blended (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Add flour, shredded cheddar, parmesan (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until a soft dough forms.
  4. Scoop heaping tablespoon-sized portions (about 20g each) and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  5. Use your thumb, the back of a rounded teaspoon, or the end of a wooden spoon handle to gently press an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
  6. Fill each indent with about 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper jelly.
  7. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until edges are golden and cheese is bubbling.
  8. Optional: In the last 2 minutes of baking, sprinkle extra cheddar or parmesan over the tops.
  9. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, use block cheddar and shred it yourself. Don’t overfill the thumbprints with jelly to avoid bubbling over. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute with appropriate flour and cheese alternatives. These freeze well, both baked and unbaked.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy thumbprint appetizers, hot pepper jelly, party snack, finger food, easy appetizer, cheddar, cream cheese, holiday appetizer, savory thumbprint, make ahead

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/cheesy-thumbprint-appetizers-easy-hot-pepper-jelly-party-snack/