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Colorful assortment of cheesy thumbprint appetizers arranged on a rustic wooden platter, topped with golden melted cheese and glossy hot pepper jelly, garnished with fresh herbs, with a vibrant background that highlights the creamy and spicy textures.

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Spicy Pepper Jelly Delight

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A savory appetizer combining flaky baked cheese cookies with a sweet and spicy pepper jelly topping, perfect for entertaining.

  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 20 appetizers

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Hot pepper jelly for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine shredded cheese, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
  3. Add cold butter and cut in with a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Form dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 15 minutes.
  5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut into 2-inch circles using a cookie cutter.
  7. Place circles on prepared baking sheet. Using your thumb or a small spoon, make a small indentation in the center of each.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
  9. Let cool slightly, then top each with a spoonful of hot pepper jelly before serving.

Notes

  • Chill dough for easier handling and to prevent spreading.
  • Use mild or hot pepper jelly depending on spice preference.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Method: baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 appetizers
  • Calories: 150 Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg