Looking for a unique and flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests? These cheesy thumbprint appetizers filled with hot pepper jelly are the perfect choice! Follow this step-by-step guide to create these delicious mini treats.
### Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (1.5 oz) jar hot pepper jelly
### Equipment
- Small spoon
- Pastry brush or toothpick
- Small round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter)
- Mini muffin tin
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
1. **Softening Cream Cheese**: Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
2. **Mixing Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese with chopped red onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
#### Step 2: Add Cheese
3. **Adding Grated Cheese**: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully incorporated into the mixture. Ensure it’s evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
#### Step 3: Prepare Muffin Tin
4. **Line the Tins**: Fill a mini muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking.
5. **Distribute the Mixture**: Use a small spoon to fill each liner about two-thirds full of the cheese mixture.
#### Step 4: Create Thumbprints
6. **Make Impressions**: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press down into the center of each filled muffin cup to create a shallow well in the cheese.
7. **Filling the Wells**: Carefully spoon a small amount of hot pepper jelly into each well.
#### Step 5: Bake
8. **Baking Time**: Place the mini muffin tin in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. **Cooling**: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
### Tips and Variations
- For an extra spicy kick, use a hotter variety of pepper jelly.
- Consider adding diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture for an added layer of flavor.
- Serve these appetizers with a side of ranch or honey mustard dipping sauce for extra enjoyment.
### Conclusion
These cheesy thumbprint appetizers filled with hot pepper jelly are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Perfect for any party, they're sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy making and serving them!
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