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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Golden cheesy thumbprint appetizers filled with glistening hot pepper jelly.
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These irresistible appetizers feature a tender, flaky cheddar pastry cup filled with sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly. They are deceptively easy to make and disappear quickly from any party platter. The key is using very cold butter and not overworking the dough for the perfect texture.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cubed
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 (10-12 oz) jar of hot pepper jelly
  • Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: In a food processor, combine the cold cubed butter, shredded cheese, flour, salt, and optional cayenne. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse, pebbly sand with visible bits of butter and cheese.
  2. Form the Dough Ball: Dump the mixture onto a clean counter. Gently press and knead just until it comes together into a cohesive ball. Do not overwork. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Shape the Appetizers: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Unwrap the chilled dough. Pinch off pieces and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them 1 inch apart on the sheets. Use your thumb or a spoon handle to press a deep indentation into the center of each ball.
  4. Bake (First Stage): Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and bottoms are set. Remove from oven. The indentations will have shrunk; gently re-press them with the spoon handle.
  5. Add the Jelly & Finish Baking: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly into each warm indentation. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until jelly is bubbly and pastry is golden brown. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure butter is very cold. Do not overmix the dough. Press deep indentations and re-press after the first bake to create perfect wells for the jelly. Appetizers can be frozen unbaked or baked. Thaw and reheat in a 350°F oven to recrisp.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/cheesy-thumbprint-appetizers-hot-pepper-jelly/