Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Eight Flavorful Fillings
These delightful cheesy shortbread appetizers offer a versatile base for an array of flavorful fillings, perfect for any gathering. Customize with your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing bite.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cheesy Shortbread Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
For the Fillings (Choose your favorites!)
- Kalamata and green olives, capers, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil Spicy Olive Tapenade: Finely chopped
- Sweet caramelized onions, crispy bacon bits Caramelized Onion & Bacon:
- Cream cheese, Parmesan, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic powder Spinach & Artichoke Dip:
- Sundried tomatoes (oil-packed), fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil Sundried Tomato Pesto:
- Cream cheese, finely chopped smoked salmon, fresh dill, lemon zest Smoked Salmon & Dill Cream Cheese:
- Crumbled blue cheese, a dollop of fig jam Blue Cheese & Fig Jam:
- Roasted red peppers (jarred), crumbled feta, oregano Roasted Red Pepper & Feta:
- Store-bought or homemade pesto, small diced cherry tomatoes Pesto and Cherry Tomato:
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese until light and fluffy.
Add Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour, salt, and optional cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
Chill (Optional but Recommended)
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Preheat Oven & Prep Tray
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Form the Thumbprints
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press an indentation into the center of each ball using your thumb or a small spoon.
Bake
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. If indentations puff up, gently re-press them while still warm.
Cool
- Remove from the oven and cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Fillings
- While the thumbprints are cooling, prepare your desired fillings using the suggested ingredients.
Fill & Serve
- Once the cheesy bases are completely cool, spoon or pipe your chosen fillings into each indentation. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
For best results, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Don't overmix the dough to keep the shortbread tender. Get creative with your filling choices to suit any palate!