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Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are easy-to-make, bite-sized snacks featuring soft, tender dough filled with a variety of melty cheeses and flavorful fillings. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these appetizers offer a delightful combination of gooey cheese centers and savory, customizable flavors that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 appetizers 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • Approximately 1/3 cup cold water or milk

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, or a blend)
  • Optional fillings: sun-dried tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs (basil, rosemary, oregano, parsley, chives), cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, red pepper flakes, roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water or milk, stirring until the dough just comes together. Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
  2. Shape the Dough: Tear off small portions of dough and roll into bite-sized balls. Using your thumb or a small spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each ball to create a well for the filling.
  3. Add the Cheese Filling: Fill each indentation with a generous pinch of your chosen cheese blend. Add optional fillings like herbs or cooked bacon bits if desired.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the filled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the dough turns golden brown.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow appetizers to cool slightly so the cheese sets, helping the bites maintain their shape. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Keep butter cold to ensure a flaky and tender dough.
  • Do not overfill the thumbprints to prevent cheese from spilling over during baking.
  • Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  • Watch the oven closely, as cheese melts quickly; bake until bubbly but avoid burning the dough.
  • Try combining sharper and milder cheeses to balance flavor and meltiness.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 appetizers
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 0.3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Cheesy appetizers, bite-sized snacks, thumbprint appetizers, party food, easy appetizers, gluten-free appetizers, melty cheese bites