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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot
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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot offer a perfect balance of gooey, melted cheese and a spicy kick, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery dough. These easy-to-make bite-sized treats deliver rich creamy flavors combined with customizable heat levels, making them ideal for parties, casual get-togethers, or savory snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 3–4 tablespoons cold water

Cheese Filling Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese or sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons minced jalapeños or 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Combine the flour and cold butter in a large bowl. Cut the butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
  2. Make the Spicy Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, cream cheese or sour cream, minced jalapeños or hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Shape the Thumbprints: Remove the chilled dough from the fridge and roll it into small balls approximately one inch in diameter. Place the balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press a small well into the center of each ball.
  4. Fill and Bake: Spoon a generous amount of the spicy cheese filling into each dough well. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the appetizers for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the appetizers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces or sides.

Notes

  • Chill your dough well to keep it firm and easy to shape.
  • Use sharp cheeses to provide a richer, punchier flavor that balances the heat.
  • Do not overfill the thumbprints to prevent cheese from spilling over during baking.
  • Adjust spice levels by tasting the filling before baking and adding more or less jalapeños/hot sauce as desired.
  • Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy appetizers, spicy snacks, thumbprint appetizers, party snacks, finger foods, jalapeño cheese bites

Find it online: https://withnora.com/cheesy-thumbprint-appetizers-with-hot/