Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

This Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer is the perfect bite-sized treat for any gathering. With a delightful blend of sharp cheddar cheese and a rich homemade onion turkey turkey turkey bacon jam, these cookies stand out for their unique flavor and texture. They’re great for parties, game day, or simply as a cozy snack at home. The combination of savory cheese and sweet jam creates an unforgettable taste experience that will leave your guests asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these cheesy delights ready in no time.
• Flavorful & Unique: The sharp cheddar paired with the sweet-tangy turkey turkey turkey bacon jam offers an exciting twist on traditional appetizers.
• Versatile Serving Options: These thumbprint cookies can be enjoyed warm, cold, or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their distinctive look and taste are sure to impress friends and family alike, making them an ideal addition to your appetizer spread.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious appetizer.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Food processor: This tool makes mixing the dough quick and effortless by ensuring a consistent texture.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet helps in even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper saves time on cleanup and ensures your cookies come off the sheet easily.

Ingredients

This cheesy thumbprint appetizer is a cheddar cheese cookie filled with homemade onion turkey turkey turkey bacon jam.

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, (chilled, cubed)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Filling

• 1 cup homemade onion turkey turkey turkey bacon jam, (for filling)

How to Make Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Blend cheese, flour, butter, salt, and garlic powder in your food processor until the dough has a coarse-meal texture. After stopping the food processor, use your hands to bring it together in a ball.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Remove the dough from the food processor, cover it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

When ready, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Form it into 1 ½-inch balls. Place them 1 inch apart onto the lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake for 7-8 minutes and then remove from oven. Press a teaspoon (or thumb) into each cookie and then top with about 1 teaspoon of turkey turkey turkey bacon jam. Return cheddar cookies to the oven for an additional 7-8 minutes or until cookies are golden and the dough does not appear wet.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature. These cheddar cookie appetizers can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature. We love them warm!

Step 7: Garnish

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

When it comes to serving your cheesy thumbprint appetizer, presentation and pairing are key. These delightful cheddar cookies can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your gathering or meal.

Pair with Dips

• Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool ranch dip complements the savory flavors perfectly.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Add a kick with some spicy mayo for those who love a little heat.

Garnish Options

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For an extra hint of spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper on each thumbprint.

Serving Styles

• On a Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter for an inviting display.
• In Mini Cups: Serve them in small cups for individual portions that are easy to grab.

How to Perfect Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

For the best results with your cheesy thumbprint appetizer, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the butter firm up and keeps the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cheddar cheese and homemade turkey turkey turkey bacon jam will elevate the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them in the oven; you want them golden, not brown.
• Use a Food Processor: This makes mixing easier and ensures a uniform dough consistency.
• Press Gently: When making the thumbprint, press just enough to create space without breaking the cookie.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different fillings like pesto or roasted garlic spread for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

Pairing side dishes with your cheesy thumbprint appetizer can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a refreshing contrast.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the appetizer.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms complement the cheesy goodness perfectly.
4. Fruit Skewers: Sweet fruits like grapes and melons add a nice touch of sweetness alongside savory bites.
5. Cheese Board: Offer an assortment of cheeses to pair with your thumbprints for cheese lovers.
6. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers add protein to your spread, making it more filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your cheesy thumbprint appetizer, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Boldly overmixing: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined and then form into a ball.
• Ignoring chilling time: Skipping the refrigeration step may result in cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill the dough for 30 minutes.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect texture and doneness. Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F before baking.
• Using fresh herbs without washing: If you’re adding fresh parsley as a garnish, always wash and dry it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture on your cookies.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can alter the taste and texture of your cookies. Use proper measuring tools for precision.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cheesy thumbprint appetizer in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

• You can freeze the baked cookies once cooled.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering them with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer?

A cheesy thumbprint appetizer is a delightful cookie made with cheddar cheese, featuring a center filled with flavorful onion turkey jam.

Can I make Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you are ready to bake.

What kind of cheese works best?

While sharp cheddar is recommended, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

How do I customize my Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer?

You can add herbs or spices to the dough or try different jams for filling, like fruit preserves or spicy pepper jelly.

Can I use ground turkey instead of turkey turkey turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in the jam filling, providing a leaner option while still delivering great flavor.

Conclusion

This cheesy thumbprint appetizer is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with different fillings or seasonings to suit your taste. Try out this recipe today, and enjoy its cheesy goodness!

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