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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Craving a delightful appetizer that combines savory cheese with a hint of sweetness and spice? These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are your answer! Crafted from buttery cheese dough, each bite reveals a creamy center enveloped in sharp cheddar, perfectly complemented by a dollop of fiery-sweet hot pepper jelly. Quick and easy to prepare, these appetizers are perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Impress your guests with their eye-catching thumbprint design and bold flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and elevate your menu.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar until well combined.
  2. Add flour, salt, and garlic powder; mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  4. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press your thumb into each ball to create an indentation.
  5. Fill each thumbprint with about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly.
  6. Bake for 13–15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 95
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 103mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 18mg

Keywords: Chill your dough well to maintain shape during baking. Experiment with different cheeses or jellies for varied flavors. Serve warm for the best taste experience.