Classic Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers
These delightful Classic Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are perfect for any gathering, featuring a savory dough and a melted cheddar cheese filling. They are quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear!
Equipment
- medium bowl
- pastry blender or fingertips
- plastic wrap
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- small spoon
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives or green onions optional
- paprika or hot sauce Pinch or a dash, optional
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Whisk together flour, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl.
- Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture with a pastry blender or fingertips until coarse crumbs form.
Form and Chill
- Gradually add ice water until the dough just comes together, being careful not to overmix.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make handling easier.
Bake the Thumbprints
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place them on the baking sheet, and make a deep indentation in the center of each.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Fill and Finish
- Remove from oven and spoon 1-2 teaspoons of shredded cheese into each indentation, adding chives or paprika if desired.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool slightly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack and serve warm.
Notes
For best results, ensure butter is very cold to achieve a flaky dough. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties or add a pinch of garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor.