Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory, creamy cheese with a touch of sweet heat? These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are an irresistible choice! With a buttery cheese dough and a spicy-sweet jelly center, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion—from parties to cozy family gatherings. Easy to prepare and fun to serve, they feature crispy edges and a delightful creamy center that’s sure to impress your guests. Plus, with the option to make the dough ahead of time, you can enjoy more time mingling and less time in the kitchen!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 appetizers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully combined.
- Add flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using); mix until dough forms.
- Wrap and chill the dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Press a thumbprint into each ball and fill with hot pepper jelly.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 appetizer (28g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg