Description
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are easy-to-make, flavorful snacks perfect for effortless gatherings. These bite-sized treats combine store-bought pastry dough with a savory cheese filling and a sweet-spicy hot pepper jelly topping, making them an ideal finger food for parties and get-togethers.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 package store-bought pastry dough
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or any favorite cheese)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 jar hot pepper jelly (can be swapped with any preferred jam)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the appetizers evenly.
- Prepare Pastry Dough: Roll out the store-bought pastry dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into 12 equal squares or rounds, depending on your preference.
- Shape Thumbprints: Place the dough pieces onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press a small indentation into the center of each dough piece to form a well for the filling.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded cheese with minced garlic (or garlic powder) and season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will provide a cheesy, flavorful center for each appetizer.
- Fill the Dough: Spoon the cheese mixture into each thumbprint indentation, filling them generously but ensuring the edges of the dough remain clear for clean baking.
- Bake: Bake the filled dough pieces in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Topping: After removing from the oven, immediately spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly onto the melted cheese in each thumbprint, adding a sweet and spicy contrast to the savory cheese.
- Cool and Serve: Let the appetizers cool for a few minutes so the filling sets slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute hot pepper jelly with any preferred jam, such as apricot or peach, for different flavor profiles.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for variety.
- Optional garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available.
- If desired, add herbs like chopped chives or parsley to the cheese mixture for added freshness.
- Serve these appetizers alongside a dipping sauce or fresh vegetables for a complete party platter.
