Picture this: golden, buttery shortbread with a kick of spicy jalapeño and a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese. That’s the magic of Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread – a savory delight that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or simply indulging in a moment of culinary bliss.
Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds with its savory, spicy, and cheesy flavors. Each bite offers a perfect balance of buttery richness from the shortbread, sharpness from the cheddar cheese, and a hint of heat from the jalapeños. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to your favorite soup or chili, this savory treat is sure to leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible treat in your own kitchen.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: additional grated cheese and jalapeño slices for topping
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, grated cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough gently until it comes together.
- Shape the Shortbread: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes – squares, rounds, or any shape you prefer.
- Top and Bake: If desired, sprinkle additional grated cheese and place a slice of jalapeño on top of each shortbread for extra flavor and presentation. Transfer the shaped shortbread onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortbread is golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy: Remove the baked shortbread from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, indulge in the spicy, cheesy goodness of your homemade Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread.
In Conclusion:
With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, entertaining guests, or simply craving a savory snack, this homemade treat is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in the spicy, cheesy deliciousness of Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread