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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Deliciously creamy and savory thumbprint appetizers filled with cheese and topped with zesty hot pepper jelly, perfect for gatherings and family get-togethers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional) Can be omitted or substituted with other herbs.
  • Hot pepper jelly (for topping) Adjust heat to preference.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  4. Gradually add in the grated cheddar cheese to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
  5. Slowly add the flour mixture to the cheese blend. Stir until a soft dough forms.
  6. Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them an inch apart.
  7. Gently press your thumb into the center of each ball to create a small indentation.
Baking
  1. Spoon the cheese mixture into the thumbprint of each dough ball, filling generously.
  2. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  3. Once baked, let them cool slightly before adding a dollop of hot pepper jelly to each thumbprint.
  4. Plate them up and serve!

Notes

Experiment with cheeses and herbs for variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to a month.