These cheesy thumbprint appetizers with hot pepper jelly are the kind of bite-sized snack that disappears fast at parties. Crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and filled with a sweet-spicy jelly, they strike the perfect balance between savory and bold. If you like crowd-pleasing appetizers similar to classic deviled eggs , this recipe belongs on your table.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Make-ahead friendly: Shape the dough in advance and bake when needed.
- Sweet and savory: Sharp cheese pairs perfectly with hot pepper jelly.
- Party perfect: Ideal for holidays, game days, and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar.
- Add the flour, salt, and garlic powder. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indent into the center of each ball.
- Fill each indent with about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges. Cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack if you want extra heat.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it feels too soft to handle.
- For holiday spreads, pair these with sausage balls or cheesy taco sticks .
Substitutions
If hot pepper jelly is too spicy, use mild red pepper jelly or even apricot preserves for a sweeter version. Gluten-free all-purpose flour works well as a 1:1 substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy thumbprint appetizers warm or at room temperature. They pair especially well with veggie platters or creamy dips like buffalo chicken dip for a balanced appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh the texture.
FAQs
Can I freeze these appetizers?
Yes. Freeze the unbaked dough balls without jelly. Add the filling just before baking.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives the strongest flavor, but Colby-Jack and pepper jack both work well.
More to Try
- Festive Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
- Spinach Dip Pinwheels
- Dirty Martini Dip
- Halloween Charcuterie Board
Conclusion
These cheesy thumbprint appetizers with hot pepper jelly are simple, bold, and always a hit. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or need an easy appetizer, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite.
Print
Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick, cheesy bite with a sweet and spicy twist—perfect for parties or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 can crescent or biscuit dough
- ½ cup hot pepper jelly
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and salt together.
- Press dough into muffin tin to form small cups.
- Fill each with cheese mixture.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Top each with a spoonful of hot pepper jelly and serve warm.
Notes
Best served warm for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cheese bites, pepper jelly, appetizer, party snack, crescent dough