Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread

Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a delicious, savory twist on traditional shortbread cookies. The rich flavor of sharp cheddar cheese combined with the subtle heat from fresh jalapeños creates a snack that’s both comforting and exciting. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between buttery crispness and the bold flavors of cheese and spice, making it a great choice for parties, casual gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something different.

These shortbread cookies are incredibly easy to make and come together in no time, offering a crunchy, flavorful treat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips, beverages, or even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re preparing them for an appetizer at your next dinner party or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cheesy, spicy morsels will become an instant favorite. The blend of cheddar and jalapeños gives them a fun and zesty kick, while the smooth buttery texture of shortbread adds a satisfying richness.

This recipe is simple enough for beginners, but the results are impressive enough to wow your guests. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños depending on your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavor Combination

The sharpness of cheddar cheese and the heat from jalapeños create a perfect balance of rich and spicy flavors.

2. Simple and Quick to Make

With just a handful of ingredients and a 30-minute prep-to-bake time, this recipe is a breeze to whip up.

3. Customizable Spice Level

You can easily adjust the number of jalapeños to make these shortbread cookies as mild or as spicy as you like.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

These cheesy, spicy shortbread cookies are ideal for serving at parties, as a snack, or as an accompaniment to your favorite dips.

5. Buttery and Crisp Texture

The shortbread base offers a delightfully crisp texture with a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the bold ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2-3 jalapeños, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Variations

• Add herbs: Add some finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to bring extra flavor to the shortbread.
• Cheese alternatives: Swap the cheddar cheese for a different type, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
• Spicy kick: For an extra spicy version, add some chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the dough.
• Cheese and onion: Add finely diced onions or scallions along with the jalapeños for an added savory element.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the shortbread.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese until they are smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Mix in Jalapeños and Dry Ingredients

Add the finely chopped jalapeños, flour, salt, and cayenne pepper to the butter-cheese mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.

Step 5: Cut the Dough into Shapes

Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into your desired shapes. Place the cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Bake the Shortbread

Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the shortbread to cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these delicious, cheesy bites!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use cold butter: For the best texture, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. If the butter is too soft, the cookies may spread too much.
• Chill the dough: If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as shortbread can go from golden to overdone quickly.
• Flour your rolling surface: Make sure to flour your rolling pin and surface to prevent the dough from sticking.

How to Serve

Serve Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread as a stand-alone snack or as an appetizer with a bowl of salsa, guacamole, or a spicy dip. They also pair wonderfully with a cold beer, lemonade, or even a glass of wine. These shortbread cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or with other party foods.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the leftover shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge to preserve their freshness.

Freezing

These shortbread cookies freeze well. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the shortbread on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crisp texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but be sure to reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to avoid making the shortbread too salty.

2. Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a new flavor twist.

3. How can I make these spicier?

Add more jalapeños or include some chili powder or cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

4. Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking.

5. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze the dough in a disc shape for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw slightly and roll it out.

6. What’s the best way to store them?

Store the baked shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

7. How do I make these dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter and use dairy-free cheese.

8. Can I add other spices?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices such as smoked paprika or garlic powder for additional flavor.

9. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a more rustic flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.

10. Can I make these without jalapeños?

Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the jalapeños and add extra cheese for richness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a fun and flavorful snack that combines the richness of cheddar with the heat of fresh jalapeños. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a tasty snack, this savory shortbread is sure to impress. Easy to make and customizable to your taste, it’s the perfect addition to any occasion. The crisp texture and cheesy flavor make each bite a delight, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Enjoy these irresistible treats with friends and family for a satisfying snack!

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