Sweet-Heat Pepper Jelly Cheese Thumbprints

These Sweet-Heat Pepper Jelly Cheese Thumbprints are the ultimate savory-sweet appetizer, combining rich, buttery cheese dough with a glossy burst of spicy pepper jelly in every bite. Soft and tender inside with lightly golden edges, they deliver just the right contrast of creamy, salty, and sweet heat. Best of all, they look elegant while staying incredibly easy to make.

Although thumbprint cookies are traditionally sweet, savory cheese thumbprints have become increasingly popular in modern entertaining. In fact, pairing cheese with jam or jelly has long been a staple in European-style appetizer spreads, where bold flavors shine through simple preparations. This version leans modern and approachable, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or casual snacking.

Whether served warm or at room temperature, these cheese thumbprints feel special without being fussy. Plus, they can be prepped ahead and baked fresh, making them a reliable go-to when you want something impressive yet effortless.

Recipe Yield: 20–22 thumbprints

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup hot pepper jelly
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil, for shaping

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the cheese dough:
In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and butter. Mix until smooth and fully blended. Next, add the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Then, stir until a soft, cohesive dough forms.

2. Chill the dough:
Cover and refrigerate the dough for 25–30 minutes. This step is completed as written and helps the thumbprints hold their shape while baking.

3. Shape the thumbprints:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly oil your hands, then roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each ball.

4. Fill and bake:
Spoon about ½ tsp hot pepper jelly into each indentation. Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.

5. Cool and serve:
Allow the Sweet-Heat Pepper Jelly Cheese Thumbprints to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

• Use finely grated cheese for the best texture
  Finely grated cheddar melts more evenly, creating a smoother dough and a tender bite. As a result, the thumbprints bake up rich without greasy spots.
• Avoid overfilling the centers
  While it may be tempting, too much pepper jelly can spill over as it heats. Instead, a small spoonful keeps each thumbprint neat and glossy.
• Serve slightly warm for maximum flavor
  Although these cheese thumbprints are delicious at room temperature, serving them slightly warm enhances the creamy cheese and sweet-heat contrast.