Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly are a delightful treat that combines a tender, buttery base with a burst of sweet and spicy flavor. Perfect for parties or a flavorful snack, these bites are easy to make and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of flour
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk
• Pepper jelly (for filling)
• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9×9 inch pan to prepare for baking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: Add the butter, eggs, and milk to the dry ingredients and mix until the batter is smooth and consistent.
4. Step 4: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Use your thumb to press small indentations into the top of the warm cake to create “thumbprints.”
7. Step 7: Spoon pepper jelly into each indentation, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
8. Step 8: Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese and warm the jelly.
9. Step 9: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy thumbprints with pepper jelly!

Tips & Variations

• Use cream cheese mixed with pepper jelly for a smoother filling alternative.
• Try different flavored jellies like jalapeño or habanero for extra heat.
• Swap the butter for a mild olive oil to add a subtle richness.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy thumbprints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to retain their texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that measures cup-for-cup to keep the texture similar.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter and press it into the pan ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the pepper jelly topping just before reheating and serving.

Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.7 from 143 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 24 thumbprints 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these delicious Cheesy Thumbprints with Pepper Jelly, a savory treat combining a soft, buttery base with a hint of sweetness from pepper jelly. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, these baked thumbprints offer a wonderful blend of rich cheese and spicy jelly in every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup milk

Topping

• Pepper jelly (quantity as desired for thumbprint filling)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and lightly flour a 9×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, white sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Add wet ingredients: Incorporate the softened butter, eggs, and milk into the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, consistent batter.
4. Spread batter into pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the mixture is firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Create thumbprints: While still warm, gently press small indentations (thumbprints) into the top of the baked base at regular intervals.
7. Add pepper jelly: Spoon pepper jelly into each thumbprint indentation generously to fill.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the thumbprints to cool completely in the pan so the jelly sets slightly. Serve and enjoy these flavorful bites as a perfect appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• You can adjust the amount of pepper jelly based on your spice preference.
• Use a small spoon or your finger to create the thumbprint indentations while the base is still warm but not too hot to handle.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheesy Thumbprints, Pepper Jelly, Appetizer, Snack, Baked Finger Food, Savory Snacks