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Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly Recipe

Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly Recipe

5.2 from 24 reviews

These Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly are a delightful savory appetizer combining a tender, buttery dough with a bold, sweet, and spicy pepper jelly topping. Perfect for parties or a savory snack, these bites offer the perfect balance of creamy cheese flavor and tangy jelly sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup milk

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup pepper jelly

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, white sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients and Butter: Cut the softened butter into small pieces and add it to the dry ingredients. Then, crack in the eggs and pour in the milk. Mix thoroughly until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Combine Cheese: Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly throughout the batter for a cheesy flavor and texture.
  5. Spread Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared 9×9 inch baking pan, spreading it smoothly to the edges.
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Create Thumbprints: Once baked and slightly cooled but still warm, gently press your thumb into the center of each desired piece to create an indentation.
  8. Add Pepper Jelly: Spoon pepper jelly into each thumbprint indentation generously but without overflowing.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the thumbprints to cool completely to set the jelly, then serve as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • Use softened butter for easier mixing and better texture.
  • If pepper jelly is too thick, warm slightly to make it easier to spread.
  • Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite sharp or mild cheese.
  • These thumbprints are best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy thumbprints, pepper jelly appetizer, savory snack, party finger food, baked appetizers