Oh my goodness, let me tell you about cheesy jalapeno shortbread! This little gem is a savory treat that packs a punch with just the right amount of spice. Imagine buttery, crumbly shortbread infused with shredded cheddar cheese and zesty jalapenos—it’s like a flavor explosion in every bite! I remember the first time I made these for a gathering; they disappeared faster than I could say “snack time!” They’re perfect for parties, game days, or simply when you want to jazz up your afternoon tea. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be craving these cheesy delights again and again. They’re the ultimate blend of comfort and excitement!

Ingredients for Cheesy Jalapeno Shortbread

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your cheesy jalapeno shortbread. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that deliciously savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture!

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This will give your shortbread that rich, buttery flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your shortbread, providing that lovely crumbly texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Use your favorite sharp cheddar for a bold, cheesy kick!
• 1/2 cup finely chopped jalapenos: Adjust this amount based on how spicy you like things! Removing the seeds can help tone it down a bit.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: A little extra spice to round out the taste.

Make sure your butter is nice and soft, so it creams well with the other ingredients. You’re going to love how these come together!

How to Prepare Cheesy Jalapeno Shortbread

Now, let’s get to the fun part—preparing your cheesy jalapeno shortbread! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions so you can whip these up in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want those cookies to bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.
2. Cream the butter: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with a mixer until it’s smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want it light and airy!
3. Add the dry ingredients: Next, mix in the all-purpose flour, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapenos, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix—just give it a good mix until you can’t see any dry flour.
4. Form the dough: Roll the dough into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter. If it’s a bit sticky, you can sprinkle a little flour on your hands or the counter to help.
5. Wrap and chill: Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for getting that perfect cookie texture!
6. Slice and bake: Once chilled, take the log out and slice it into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—you want that perfect balance of crispy and chewy!
8. Cool and enjoy: Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, then dive in!

And there you have it! Simple, right? You’ll be amazed at how quickly these cheesy jalapeno shortbread cookies come together, and I can’t wait for you to taste them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: You can whip these up in just about 35 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings!
• Easy instructions: The steps are straightforward, making it a fun project for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of cheddar and jalapenos delivers a delightful savory kick that keeps you coming back for more.
• Perfect for snacking: These shortbread cookies are ideal for parties, game days, or just enjoying with your afternoon tea.
• Customizable spice level: You can easily adjust the jalapeno amount to suit your taste, whether you like it mild or fiery!
• Great for sharing: With a yield of 24 cookies, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family.
• Make-ahead treat: Prepare the dough in advance and keep it in the fridge for a quick bake whenever you need a snack.

Tips for Success

Want to make your cheesy jalapeno shortbread even better? I’ve got some expert tips that will help you achieve the most delicious results!

• Butter temperature: Make sure your butter is truly softened before creaming. If it’s too cold, it won’t mix well, and you won’t get that fluffy texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before you start.
• Jalapeno prep: If you want a milder flavor, consider removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. This little trick will tone down the heat without sacrificing that lovely peppery taste.
• Chilling time: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s crucial for the dough to firm up, which helps the cookies hold their shape while baking. If you’re in a hurry, you can chill for just 15-20 minutes, but longer is always better.
• Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still a bit soft in the center when you take them out. They’ll firm up as they cool!
• Storage: To keep your shortbread fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the sliced log before baking. Just wrap it tightly and pop it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, slice and bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to play around with different types of cheese! Pepper jack adds an extra kick, while gouda brings a rich, smoky flavor. Mix and match to find your perfect combo!

Follow these tips, and you’ll have a batch of cheesy jalapeno shortbread that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the process and have fun with it!

Variations of Cheesy Jalapeno Shortbread

If you’re feeling adventurous (and I hope you are!), there are so many fun ways to customize your cheesy jalapeno shortbread. Each variation can bring a new twist to this already delightful treat. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity!

• Spicy Pepper Jack: Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of spice. Perfect for those who love their snacks fiery!
• Herbed Delight: Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano or rosemary to the dough for a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Smoky Gouda: Try using smoked gouda instead of cheddar. It adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the jalapenos.
• Chili Flakes: For an extra layer of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the mix. It’ll give your shortbread a delightful surprise!
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a sweet twist that balances the heat of the jalapenos. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
• Cheddar and Chive: Mix in some fresh chopped chives along with the cheese for a savory flavor that’s reminiscent of classic cheddar biscuits.
• Mixed Cheese Medley: Combine different cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan for a cheesy explosion that’s both creamy and sharp!

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Who knows, you might just create your new favorite version of cheesy jalapeno shortbread!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked up a delicious batch of cheesy jalapeno shortbread, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and tasty! Here’s how to store your leftovers and reheat them when you’re ready for another round of snacking.

First, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once they’re cool, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help keep them nice and crunchy on the outside while still being soft on the inside.

If you find yourself with a surplus (which, let’s be honest, might not happen because they’re so addictive!), you can freeze the sliced logs of dough before baking. Just wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for about two months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice off the rounds and put them straight into the oven. You might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time, but that’s no big deal!

As for reheating, if you’ve got some cookies left over and they’ve lost a bit of their crunch, just pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore that delightful texture and warm them up nicely. Trust me, the aroma will have your mouth watering all over again!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your cheesy jalapeno shortbread at its best anytime you want!

Nutritional Information

Curious about what’s in these tasty cheesy jalapeno shortbread cookies? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per cookie, so you can enjoy them guilt-free (or at least a little less guilty!). Keep in mind these are estimates based on standard ingredient measurements, so your results may vary slightly depending on the brands you use and any substitutions you make.

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 0g

With a delicious combination of cheese and a hint of spice, these shortbread cookies are definitely a treat worth savoring! Enjoy them as a snack or serve them at your next gathering—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! Just be mindful to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe. Salted butter can add a little extra flavor, but you don’t want your cookies to be overly salty.

What if I don’t like spicy food?
No worries! You can still enjoy these cheesy shortbread cookies. Just use fewer jalapenos, or even try substituting with sweet bell peppers for a milder flavor. They’ll still be delicious!

How can I make these gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just check that it contains xanthan gum or add a bit to help with the texture!

How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, freezing them is a great option!

Can I add other ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in things like cooked bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or even herbs like cilantro for a fun twist. Get creative!

Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough is key for achieving the right texture, but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip it. Just be aware that the cookies might spread more during baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for up to two months. Just slice and bake when you’re ready!

What should I serve these with?
These cheesy jalapeno shortbread cookies are fantastic on their own, but you could also serve them with a creamy dip or alongside a charcuterie board for a savory snack spread!

Cheesy Jalapeno Shortbread: 7 Irresistible Flavor Combos

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cheesy jalapeno shortbread is a savory treat with a kick.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped jalapenos
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream the butter until smooth.
3. Add flour, cheese, jalapenos, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
4. Roll the dough into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap.
5. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Slice the log into rounds and place on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool before serving.

Notes

• Adjust jalapeno quantity for desired spice level.
• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: cheesy jalapeno shortbread, savory cookies, snack recipes