These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect savory treats to wow your guests at any party or gathering. The combination of crunchy, cheesy dough and a spicy kick from the hot pepper jelly creates a bite-sized explosion of flavor that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack, these cheesy thumbprint appetizers hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesy thumbprint appetizers are a great blend of comfort and spice. The Cheddar cheese gives them a rich, savory flavor, while the hot pepper jelly adds just the right amount of heat and sweetness to balance out the richness. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these appetizers are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be gone in no time!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup hot pepper jelly

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the softened butter and shredded Cheddar cheese until smooth. Gradually add the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Appetizers: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each ball.
Make Thumbprints: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each ball to create a thumbprint shape.
Bake: Bake the appetizers for 10–12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
Add the Jelly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the appetizers cool for 2–3 minutes. Spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into the thumbprint of each appetizer.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 20 appetizers
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Cheese Variations: Swap out the Cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Spicier Option: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dough for an extra kick.
Sweet Heat: Use sweet pepper jelly instead of hot pepper jelly for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Herbed Version: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the dough for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of jelly?

Yes, you can use other types of fruit or pepper jelly, depending on your taste preferences. Apricot, raspberry, or jalapeño jelly can all work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it into balls.

3. How do I know when the appetizers are done?

The appetizers are done when the edges are golden brown. The cheese should be melted and bubbly inside, and the thumbprint should hold its shape.

4. Can I freeze these appetizers?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer for about 15–18 minutes.

5. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to mix the dough, especially if you want to save time and effort.

6. What’s a good dipping sauce for these appetizers?

Serve with extra hot pepper jelly, ranch dressing, or a creamy dipping sauce like sour cream to complement the heat from the jelly.

7. Can I make these with gluten-free flour?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these appetizers gluten-free.

8. Can I use a different fat instead of butter?

You can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer.

9. How do I make sure the jelly stays in the thumbprint?

Be sure not to overbake the appetizers, as they need to be slightly soft in the center to hold the jelly. The jelly should sit on top of the thumbprint without overflowing.

10. Can I make these in advance for a party?

Yes, you can make them ahead of time, store them in an airtight container, and serve at room temperature. They can also be reheated for a couple of minutes in the oven to refresh their crispy texture.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy goodness and spicy heat. Easy to make and full of flavor, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any party, gathering, or casual snack time. With a crunchy exterior, gooey cheesy center, and a burst of heat from the pepper jelly, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

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Print Recipe

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect savory bites for any gathering or party. With a crunchy, cheesy dough and a spicy-sweet kick from the hot pepper jelly, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these cheesy thumbprints are the perfect combination of comfort and spice, making them an irresistible appetizer.

Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 20 appetizers

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup hot pepper jelly

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a large bowl, mix softened butter and shredded Cheddar cheese until smooth. Gradually add flour, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using), mixing until a soft dough forms.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press an indentation in the center of each ball to create a thumbprint shape.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Once removed from the oven, cool the appetizers for 2–3 minutes. Spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into each thumbprint.
Serve and enjoy!

Notes

- Cheese Variations: Substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Option: Add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes to the dough for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Heat: Swap hot pepper jelly for a sweeter pepper jelly for a milder flavor.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizers, Party Snacks, Finger Food
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian