These babies smelled amazing once they came out of the oven. Everyone grabbed a piece, we stuffed ourselves before dinner

Introducing a delightful spin on the classic shortbread cookie: Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread. This inventive recipe blends the rich taste of cheese with the zesty punch of jalapeños, creating a snack that’s both savory and irresistibly tasty. Born in the culinary melting pot of the southern United States, this recipe celebrates the fusion of flavors that the region is known for. The creamy cheese perfectly counterbalances the spice of the jalapeños, resulting in a treat that’s as addictive as it is delightful. Ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to a simple yet flavorful snack, these cookies are bound to captivate anyone who tries them.

Not only do these savory cookies make for an excellent snack on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a bowl of fresh salsa or creamy guacamole for a light snack, or elevate your appetizer game by offering them alongside a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, olives, and pickles. They’re also a great side dish option, complementing a warm bowl of chili or adding a unique touch to a refreshing summer salad.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 egg, lightly beaten

8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold butter, cubed

2 cups grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese

2-3 jalapeño peppers, finely minced

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles dry, crumbly pea-sized pieces.

Gently stir in the beaten egg, grated cheese, and minced jalapeños until the mixture comes together.

Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to firm up.

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.

Use the bottom of a mug or jar to gently flatten each dough ball.

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow the shortbread to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread cookies are perfect as a snack, an appetizer, or even as a side dish. Their unique flavor profile is sure to make them a hit at any table. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or as part of a larger spread, these savory treats promise to deliver a burst of flavor that’s sure to please any palate.

Enjoy!