Savory Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will elevate your appetizer game – Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies! Combining the richness of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses with a bold Bourbon Tomato Jam, these savory cookies are a true showstopper at any gathering.

Picture this: a warm, crumbly cookie topped with a homemade jam that bursts with the smoky sweetness of bourbon-infused tomatoes. Each bite is a harmonious blend of buttery cheese goodness and tangy tomato perfection. It’s no wonder these Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies disappear faster than you can say “more please!”

Every holiday season, the comforting aroma of melting cheese and simmering bourbon tomatoes wafts through my kitchen, signaling the start of a festive tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a picky eater, these cookies are bound to win you over with their unique savory-sweet flavor profile. Get ready to impress your guests and make every gathering feel extra special with these delectable treats!

Quick Benefits

• Intense flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture from sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese
• Versatile recipe with options to customize ingredients for different dietary preferences
• Make-ahead convenience for easy entertaining and storing leftovers
• Perfect for parties as a unique and impressive appetizer option

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies Recipe Recipe

• The combination of the buttery, cheesy cookies with the smoky punch of the bourbon tomato jam creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.
• The aroma of melting cheese and simmering bourbon tomatoes filling your kitchen will create a sense of excitement and anticipation, making it a perfect recipe for holiday gatherings.
• The savory-sweet bite of these cookies bridges the gap between family baking traditions and sophisticated adult flavors, making them a conversation starter at any event.
• The versatility of this recipe allows for customization, such as using different types of melting cheeses or swapping bourbon for apple juice in the jam, catering to various preferences and dietary restrictions.
• These cookies can be made in advance, allowing you to prepare them ahead of time and assemble just before serving, making them a convenient and practical option for entertaining.
• The rich and intense flavors from sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses, coupled with the delicate, crumbly texture of the cookies, make each bite a delightful and indulgent experience.
• Whether served as a standalone party snack or as part of a cheese board, these Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies with Bourbon Tomato Jam are guaranteed to elevate any gathering and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Ingredients for Savory Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Savory Cookie Dough

• 100 g sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
• 130 g all-purpose flour
• 1 g onion powder
• 0.5 g cayenne pepper
• 1 g garlic powder
• 30 g parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 2 g salt
• 1 g ground black pepper
• 115 g unsalted butter, at room temperature

Bourbon Tomato Jam

• 30 ml bourbon
• 1 g ground cumin
• 2 g salt
• 30 ml apple cider vinegar
• 60 g small onion, finely chopped
• 1 g ground black pepper
• 6 g garlic, minced
• 70 g brown sugar
• 400 g tomatoes, peeled and chopped

Pro Tips for Savory Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

For the Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies with Bourbon Tomato Jam, using freshly grated sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses will provide the best flavor and texture. Be sure to let the jam cool and thicken completely before spooning it onto the cookies to avoid any overflow.

If you prefer a non-alcoholic version of the recipe, you can omit the bourbon and substitute it with a splash of apple juice without compromising the depth of flavor. Remember to use room temperature butter and avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour to maintain a delicate and crumbly texture in the cookies.

To get ahead, you can make both the cookies and the jam in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble just before serving to keep the cookies crisp and the jam bright. When serving, arrange the cookies on a platter as a delightful party snack or pair them with a cheese board for a savory-sweet twist at gatherings.

How to Make Savory Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare For Baking

Preheat the oven to 175°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Cheese Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter. Add cheddar cheese, parmesan, salt, black pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder, and mix until smooth.

Step 3: Add Flour

Gently mix in all-purpose flour until a dough forms without overmixing.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Form dough into 2.5 cm balls. Arrange on baking sheet and press a small indentation in the center of each using your thumb.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and firm. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Cook Bourbon Tomato Jam

In a saucepan, mix together tomatoes, brown sugar, bourbon, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil on medium heat.

Step 7: Simmer and Thicken

Lower the heat and simmer the jam, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy, for about 45–60 minutes. Allow to cool completely before using.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Place a small dollop of cooled tomato jam in the center of each cookie. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Storage Tips

Once you have made the Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies with Bourbon Tomato Jam, store the filled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To prolong the freshness, freeze the unfilled cookies and the jam separately. Assemble them just before serving to maintain the cookies’ crispness and the jam’s vibrant flavors.

For a vegetarian variation, use maple or apple juice instead of bourbon in the jam. Feel free to experiment with different types of flavorful melting cheeses in place of cheddar, and consider using pecorino or Grana Padano instead of parmesan. Additionally, you can swap Roma tomatoes with canned San Marzano during the winter season for a delicious twist.

When serving the cookies, consider presenting them on a wooden board alongside roasted nuts, pickles, and dried fruits for a rustic appetizer platter. Pair them with sparkling wine or a crisp lager to enhance the flavors. The bourbon tomato jam can also be used as a topping for grilled chicken or toast, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian-friendly version, swap bourbon in the tomato jam with maple or apple juice. This substitution retains the sweet and tangy flavors of the jam without the alcoholic element. It’s a great alternative for those who prefer not to use alcohol in cooking.

If you’re looking to experiment with different cheeses, feel free to replace sharp cheddar and parmesan with other flavorful melting cheeses like Gruyère or Asiago. Pecorino or Grana Padano can also be used instead of parmesan for a slightly different taste profile. These substitutions can add a unique twist to the cookies while still providing a rich and cheesy flavor.

To make these cookies during colder months when fresh tomatoes might not be as flavorful, consider using canned San Marzano tomatoes as a substitute for fresh Roma tomatoes in the jam. San Marzano tomatoes are known for their sweet and rich flavor, making them a suitable alternative for maintaining the delicious taste of the jam even when fresh tomatoes are out of season.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies with Bourbon Tomato Jam, consider arranging them on a rustic wooden board alongside a variety of roasted nuts, pickles, and dried fruits. This will create a visually appealing appetizer platter that offers a range of flavors and textures to complement the savory-sweet cookies. Pair this spread with sparkling wine or a crisp lager to enhance the tasting experience, making it perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy evening in.

For a unique twist, try using the Bourbon Tomato Jam as a versatile topping beyond the cookies. It can be served over grilled chicken or spread on toast for a delightful flavor boost. The jam’s smoky undertones and bold tomato finish add a grown-up flair to various dishes, making it a versatile condiment to have on hand. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a creative appetizer or simply elevate your everyday meals, this Bourbon Tomato Jam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

FAQs for Savory Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes, both the cookies and the bourbon tomato jam can be made in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Can I omit the bourbon in the tomato jam?

Yes, you can omit the bourbon or substitute it with a splash of apple juice for a non-alcoholic alternative. This change won’t sacrifice the complexity of flavors in the jam.

How should I store the filled cookies?

Store filled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer keeping, freeze the unfilled cookies and jam separately, assembling them just before serving to keep the cookies crisp and the jam fresh.

What type of cheese can I use as a substitute for cheddar and parmesan?

Any flavorful melting cheese can be used in place of cheddar, and pecorino or Grana Padano can substitute for parmesan. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

As you embark on making these Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies with Bourbon Tomato Jam, remember that the joy of baking lies not just in the final product but in the process itself. The scent of melting cheese, the sizzle of bourbon-infused tomatoes, and the anticipation of sharing these delightful treats with loved ones are all part of the experience. Embrace the journey of creating these savory-sweet delights, knowing that each batch carries with it the warmth and memories of past gatherings and future celebrations.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice baker, these Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies are sure to impress and delight. The combination of sharp cheddar, parmesan, and bourbon-infused tomato jam creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the magic of baking transport you to a world of delectable delights. Here’s to many more batches of Cheesy Thumbprint Savory Cookies and the joy they bring to your table.