Elevate Your Snack Game with Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread

Are you ready to add a spicy kick to your snack repertoire? Look no further than our Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread recipe! These savory shortbread cookies combine the rich flavors of cheddar or pepper jack cheese with the heat of fresh jalapeño peppers for a truly unforgettable treat. Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a standalone snack, these cheesy shortbread cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these irresistible savory delights!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold butter, cubed
• 2 cups grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2-3 fresh jalapeño peppers, finely minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Cheese and Jalapeños: Stir in the grated cheese and finely minced jalapeño peppers until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Form Dough: Drizzle the lightly beaten egg over the dough mixture and gently knead until a cohesive dough forms.
6. Shape Shortbread: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
7. Bake: Place the shaped shortbread cookies onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the baked shortbread from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Adjusting Spice Level: The heat level of the shortbread can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of minced jalapeño peppers used. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before mincing.
• Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of your shortbread. Sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or even blue cheese can all be delicious alternatives.
• Storage Tips: Store the cooled shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Option: For a keto-friendly version of these shortbread cookies, substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour and use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol instead of sugar. Additionally, opt for a high-fat cheese like cream cheese or cheddar for added richness.
• Low-Carb Variation: To reduce the carb content, you can use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour. Be sure to adjust the amount of flour used as coconut flour absorbs more liquid than almond flour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe? A: While pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, it often contains added anti-caking agents that may affect the texture of the shortbread. For best results, I recommend shredding the cheese from a block yourself.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Q: Can I freeze the baked shortbread cookies? A: Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, the shortbread cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

These Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sweet shortbread, offering a savory and spicy flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply looking for a unique snack to satisfy your cravings, these cheesy treats are sure to hit the spot. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire. So why wait? Get ready to spice up your snack game and impress your taste buds with these irresistible homemade shortbread cookies!