Description
These Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread cookies are a delightful savory snack combining sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfectly crumbly and buttery, they make an ideal appetizer or party treat with just the right amount of heat and cheesy richness.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese and Jalapeños
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
Instructions
- Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy, preparing it to combine with the dry ingredients.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to the bowl and mix until just combined to form the shortbread base dough.
- Fold in Cheese and Jalapeños: Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, and diced jalapeños ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape and Chill: Transfer the dough onto a sheet of parchment paper and shape it into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly with the parchment and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while the dough chills.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool Completely: Allow the shortbread rounds to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring perfect texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra spice, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
- These savory shortbreads make excellent cocktail snacks or thoughtful gifts when packaged in decorative tins.
