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Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread

Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread
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Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a bold and flavorful snack that combines sharp cheddar cheese with spicy jalapeños in a buttery, crumbly shortbread base. Perfect as a spicy appetizer or snack, this recipe offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a savory and spicy kick, easily customizable for different heat levels and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Cold unsalted butter, 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks), cubed
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

Flavorings

  • 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Finely dice fresh jalapeños, removing seeds if you prefer milder heat. Grate the sharp cheddar cheese and measure out all-purpose flour, cold butter, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder to streamline the mixing process.
  2. Cream the butter and cheese: Using a mixer or by hand, beat the cold, cubed butter with the grated sharp cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich, creamy base.
  3. Add jalapeños and seasonings: Fold in the diced jalapeños, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) evenly so each bite has bursts of heat and savory flavor.
  4. Incorporate the flour: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it to keep the shortbread tender and crumbly.
  5. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to solidify the butter, making it easier to shape and improving texture during baking.
  6. Shape and bake: Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into bite-sized squares or use a cookie cutter. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-18 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.

Notes

  • Use cold butter to ensure the shortbread stays flaky and tender.
  • Do not overmix the dough to maintain crumbly texture.
  • Adjust jalapeño heat by removing seeds or substituting with other peppers.
  • Chill dough before baking to get sharp shapes and perfect texture.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for pronounced savory flavor.
  • Optional: Add herbs or other spices like smoked paprika or cumin for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy jalapeño shortbread, spicy snack, appetizer, savory shortbread, cheddar jalapeño bites, party snack

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/cheesy-jalapeo-shortbread/