Pimento Cheese Thumbprint Crackers
Prepare the dough days ahead, then finish with pepper jelly for a seamless crowd pleaser.
Pimento Cheese Thumbprint Crackers Recipe
Hosting holiday gatherings can be stressful, but with the right recipes, you can make the process much easier. One such recipe is for pimento cheese thumbprint crackers, which are not only delicious but can be prepared ahead of time, reducing stress on the day of the party. These crackers combine the richness of pimento cheese with the sweetness of pepper jelly, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will please both adults and children.
Why Pimento Cheese Thumbprint Crackers?
These crackers are a great choice for several reasons:
- They can be made in advance: The crackers themselves can be baked a few days before serving, allowing you to focus on other dishes closer to the event.
- Easy to serve: The crackers are bite-sized, making them perfect for a buffet or as a appetizer.
- Customizable: You can experiment with different types of cheese or jelly to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make these delicious crackers, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1/2 tsp. |
| Chipotle chile powder | 1/2 tsp. |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp. |
| Mustard powder | 1/2 tsp. |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 tsp. |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp. |
| Salted butter, cubed | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 8 oz. (about 2 cups) |
| Diced pimentos | 2 Tbsp. |
| Water | 2 Tbsp. |
| Pepper jelly | 1/3 cup |
Instructions for Making Pimento Cheese Thumbprint Crackers
Follow these steps to create your delicious crackers:
- Preheat the Oven: Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 350˚F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dough: In a food processor, pulse together the flour, baking powder, chile powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until combined. Add the cubed butter and pulse until coarse crumbs form. Add the shredded cheese and diced pimentos, processing until well distributed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and pulse in the water until a dough forms.
- Form the Crackers: Use a tablespoon-size measuring spoon to scoop the dough into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Crackers: Bake until almost set and puffed, about 15 minutes. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and press the back of a teaspoon-size measuring spoon into each cracker to form a thumbprint-size indent. Return to the oven and continue baking until golden brown and set, 8 to 10 more minutes.
- Finish with Jelly:allow the crackers to cool completely on a rack. Just before serving, spoon or pipe about ½ teaspoon pepper jelly into the indent of each cracker.
Variations and Tips
While the classic combination of pimento cheese and pepper jelly is delicious, you can also experiment with other flavors:
- Cheddar and Apple Jelly: A sweet and savory combination that pairs well with the crumbly cheese crackers.
- Spicy Kick: Adjust the amount of chipotle chile powder to suit your desired level of spiciness.
- Make-Ahead Tips: The crackers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Fill them with jelly just before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
These crackers are versatile and can be paired with a variety of other dishes to create a well-rounded spread:
- Pimento Cheese Dip: Serve the crackers alongside a bowl of creamy pimento cheese for a delightful snack.
- Other Finger Foods: Combine with other finger foods like deviled eggs, spinach puffs, or bacon-wrapped water chestnuts for a diverse spread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I store the crackers in the fridge?
A: While it’s possible to store them in the fridge, they are best kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I make the crackers less spicy?
A: Simply reduce or omit the chipotle chile powder to minimize the spiciness.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss, but keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary.
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