Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly
These cheesy thumbprint appetizers are the perfect blend of rich, creamy cheese and a spicy kick from hot pepper jelly. Ideal for parties or a fun snack, they are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 baking spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ⅓ cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Add the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the cheese mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Using your hands, roll small portions of the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball using your thumb.
- Spoon about ½ teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each indentation.
- Bake the appetizers in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese if you want to customize the flavor.
These appetizers can be made a few hours in advance and warmed briefly in the oven before serving.
If you prefer a milder flavor, choose a sweeter or milder pepper jelly.