Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is the perfect combination of savory, spicy, and buttery goodness in one bite-sized treat. These shortbread cookies are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, featuring sharp cheddar cheese and a zesty kick from fresh jalapeños. The result is a rich, flavorful snack that can be served at parties, enjoyed with drinks, or simply eaten whenever you’re in the mood for something unique and tasty.
The buttery texture of shortbread pairs beautifully with the sharpness of cheddar and the heat of jalapeños. The cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of spice, balancing out the richness of the cheese and butter. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just enjoy cheesy snacks, these shortbread cookies are a delightful option that will wow your taste buds. Their simple preparation makes them an easy yet impressive choice for any occasion. This recipe is quick, easy to make, and guarantees a batch of crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy shortbread that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Unique Flavor Combination
The combination of cheddar cheese and jalapeños creates a savory and spicy treat that’s completely irresistible.
2. Easy to Make
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, these shortbread cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion.
3. Customizable Spice Level
You can adjust the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level, making them as mild or hot as you like.
4. Perfect for Parties
These shortbread cookies are an excellent party snack or appetizer that will impress your guests with their bold flavors.
5. Buttery and Crispy
The rich buttery texture of shortbread combined with the sharp cheese and spicy kick makes these cookies both satisfying and addictive.
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
- Cheese Variety: Swap out the sharp cheddar for other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be added to bring a fresh, aromatic element to the cookies.
- More Heat: For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dough.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these shortbread cookies gluten-free.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Add Jalapeños and Dry Ingredients
Stir in the finely chopped jalapeños, flour, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Step 5: Cut the Dough
Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the dough into desired shapes. Place the cut-out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the shortbread for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are firm.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, spicy shortbread cookies!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out.
- Use Cold Butter: For a flakier texture, use cold butter and cut it into the flour before mixing.
- Even Thickness: Roll out the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking. You can use a rolling pin with thickness guides to help with this.
- Flavor Infusion: Let the dough sit for 15 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to meld together for a more robust taste.
How to Serve
Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread cookies are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a unique snack. Pair them with a refreshing drink like iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer for a great contrast to the heat. They can also be served as an appetizer alongside dips like guacamole or sour cream to balance out the spiciness. These shortbread cookies make for an excellent addition to any charcuterie board as well!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. The cookies will retain their crispiness and flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crisp texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftover shortbread, simply place them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crispy again.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese like gouda, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
2. How do I adjust the spice level?
To make these less spicy, use fewer jalapeños or remove all the seeds. For more heat, add extra jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
3. Can I make these shortbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before rolling and cutting.
5. How can I make these gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
6. Can I add more ingredients to the dough?
Yes! You can add ingredients like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a touch of lime zest to enhance the flavor profile.
7. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content in the recipe. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt.
8. How can I make the shortbread dough easier to work with?
If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for about 15 minutes before rolling out.
9. Can I use a food processor to mix the dough?
Yes, you can use a food processor to mix the dough. Just pulse the ingredients together until a dough forms.
10. Can I serve these with a dip?
Yes, these cheesy shortbread cookies go wonderfully with a creamy dip like sour cream, guacamole, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip.
Conclusion
Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread cookies are a deliciously unique snack that packs bold flavors into every bite. With their buttery, crispy texture and a spicy kick from jalapeños and cayenne pepper, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these shortbread cookies are sure to be a hit. Easy to make, highly customizable, and totally addictive, this recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again. Enjoy the delightful fusion of cheesy, spicy, and buttery goodness with every bite!