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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer

Flaky, buttery, and bursting with sharp cheddar flavor, these Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are filled with savory onion bacon jam for a crowd-pleasing, bite-sized delight. Perfect for parties, holiday spreads, or anytime you crave a cheesy, savory treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups 226 g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup 125 g all-purpose flour
  • 6 tablespoons 85 g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup onion bacon jam store-bought or homemade

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Dough: In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and cold butter cubes. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add the Cheese: Add shredded cheddar and pulse again until the dough starts to come together. It should be crumbly but hold when pressed.
  4. Shape the Dough: Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
  5. Create Thumbprints: Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press a shallow indentation in the center of each dough ball.
  6. Bake the Shells: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. Remove from the oven.
  7. Add the Filling: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of onion bacon jam into each indentation.
  8. Finish Baking: Return to the oven for another 3–4 minutes, just to warm the jam slightly and meld the flavors.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

If your dough feels too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of cold water to help it come together. Grating the cheddar from a block (not pre-shredded) gives the best melt and texture. These can be prepped and frozen before baking for effortless entertaining later.