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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers Zesty: 9 Magical Bites

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers Zesty
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These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are perfect for entertaining. They offer a delightful contrast of creamy, savory cheese and vibrant, sweet-and-spicy hot pepper jelly, ensuring an explosion of flavors in every bite. These zesty cheesy thumbprint bites are sure to captivate your guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped chives
  • 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. This creates the base for your savory cheese thumbprint appetizers.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
  4. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix the dough for these zesty cheesy thumbprint bites.
  6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, make an indentation in the center of each dough ball. These will become your cheesy thumbprint appetizers.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each indentation while the appetizers are still warm. This adds the zesty kick to your cheesy thumbprint appetizers.
  10. Return to the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes, or until the jelly is slightly melted and bubbly.
  11. Let the zesty cheesy thumbprint appetizers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For an extra spicy cheesy thumbprint starter, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
  • These savory cheese thumbprint appetizers can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, use a sweet pepper jelly instead of hot pepper jelly.
  • Experiment with different cheese types like Monterey Jack or smoked cheddar for varied flavor.
  • These quick cheesy thumbprint snacks for parties are a crowd-pleaser!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://keepityummy.com/cheesy-thumbprint-appetizers-zesty/

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