Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s both delicious and eye-catching, then look no further than Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly. These delightful bite-sized treats offer a creamy, cheesy filling nestled in perfectly baked pastry dough and are topped with a sweet and spicy kick that everyone will love. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or even just a cozy family gathering, this recipe is a fantastic way to impress without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Did you know that thumbprint cookies, which inspired these tasty morsels, have been around since the 19th century? They were created as an inventive way to create bite-sized snacks, and we’ve taken that classic concept and given it a zesty twist!

Why is this dish so special, you ask? Well, not only is it incredibly simple and quick to make, but it also brings together flavors that dance on your palate. If you’ve ever experimented with cheese and jelly, you know how extraordinary that combination can be! So, if you’re a fan of savory treats like our Pesto and Cheese Pinwheels, you’ll be right at home with these cheesy delights. Get ready to whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for just one more!

What are Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly?

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly? What a mouthful—and oh, how delicious it is! Imagine a savory pastry made from cream cheese and flour that forms a lovely little indentation for a dollop of sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly. But have you ever wondered why we call them “thumbprint” appetizers? The story goes that the classic thumbprint cookie was pushed with your thumb, leading to that famous indentation! After all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” so why not make it a deliciously cheesy way? Get the good times rolling and give this delectable dish a try!

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are not just any snack; they boast three standout features. First, the highlight of this dish is undeniably the creamy, cheesy filling that melts in your mouth. It’s the ideal treat for cheesy aficionados who appreciate a good combination of texture and flavor.

Second, making these at home is a great way to save money compared to ordering similar appetizers at a restaurant. Plus, you can make as many as you want for family gatherings—no more lukewarm appetizers that arrive late to the party!

Finally, the sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly elevates these cheesy bites to a whole new level, adding just the right kick. If you enjoy spicy treats, you might also want to check out our Spicy Cheese Bites for an equally tempting experience. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start whipping up these scrumptious appetizers today!

How to Make Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Quick Overview

Creating these Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly is a delightful journey through flavors and textures, making them not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying! With just under 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a platter of these mouthwatering bites ready for sharing—or not! Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make them.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll need to create these cheesy delights:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Hot pepper jelly for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that oven warmed up for perfectly baked cheese goodness!
2. Mix the Cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a dough forms. It should be pliable and easy to handle.
4. Shape the Dough: Scoop out small portions of the dough (about a tablespoon each) and roll them into little balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
5. Create the Thumbprint: Using your thumb (or the back of a teaspoon), gently push down in the center of each dough ball to create a small indentation.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Add the Jelly: After removing the appetizers from the oven, allow them to cool slightly before spooning a little hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Set the appetizers on a platter and watch them disappear as your guests dive in!

What to Serve Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers With

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers can stand alone, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve them alongside fresh vegetables and a homemade ranch dip for a crunchy complement. A light salad with citrus dressing can balance the rich flavors, while your favorite sparkling beverage will keep the vibes lively. You could even try a charcuterie board with assorted meats, cheeses, and fruits for a feast that showcases these tasty bites beautifully.

Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Here are some valuable tips to elevate your cheesy appetizers:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Gouda or pepper jack would add a delightful twist.
• Spice Level: Adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the hot pepper jelly to balance according to your preference.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t go overboard, or your cheese bites may dry out.
• Aesthetic Appeal: To make them extra appealing, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers? No problem! To store, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. For freezing, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; they will stay fresh for up to a month. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.

In conclusion, Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are a sensational addition to your snacking repertoire that everyone will adore. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the cheesy goodness begin! Happy cooking!

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Delightful bite-sized treats featuring a creamy cheese filling and topped with sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly, perfect for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 pieces

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 80

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the dough

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened Softened for easy mixing
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Adjust as necessary
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For topping

• to taste hot pepper jelly Sweet and spicy, adjust to preference

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
3. Add in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Scoop small portions of the dough (about a tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place on a lined baking sheet.
5. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, gently press down to create an indentation in each dough ball.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
2. Allow to cool slightly before spooning hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint.

Serving

1. Place appetizers on a platter and serve.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider mixing in different cheeses like Gouda or pepper jack. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to a month.