Description

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot are crispy on the outside and tender, melty, and spicy on the inside. These bite-sized snacks combine a buttery flaky dough with a gooey, flavorful cheesy filling infused with jalapeños or hot sauce, perfect for parties, game day, or anytime a bold snack craving hits. Easy to make, customizable by spice level and cheese type, and great for make-ahead preparation, these appetizers are a crowd-pleasing delight that bursts with flavor and warmth.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
2–3 tablespoons cold water

Filling

1 cup shredded cheese blend (mozzarella, cheddar, and/or pepper jack)
2–3 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Pinch of mixed dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, or parsley)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Finishing

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up.
Shape the thumbprints: Remove the dough from the fridge and roll into 1-inch diameter balls. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press a small indentation in the center of each ball to create the thumbprint shape that will hold the filling.
Mix the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheese, finely chopped jalapeños or chosen hot element, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until evenly incorporated and spreadable.
Fill and bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon a generous amount of the cheesy filling into each dough indentation. Brush the edges of the dough with beaten egg to achieve a golden crust. Place the thumbprints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the dough is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned on top.
Cool and serve: Allow the appetizers to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving, ensuring the cheese centers are not too hot to enjoy safely.

Notes

Chill the dough well before shaping to improve texture and handling.
Use a blend of semi-soft and sharp cheeses for complex flavor and excellent meltability.
Fill thumbprints just enough to avoid cheese overflow during baking.
Adjust spice level gradually for balanced heat.
Bake on parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 appetizers
Calories: 150
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: cheesy appetizers, spicy snacks, thumbprint cookies, game day snacks, cheesy bites, party appetizers, jalapeño cheese snacks