Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread sounds like a delicious, savory twist on a classic! Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- ½ cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, or leave them for more heat)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (helps to make the texture more tender)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for a fresh touch)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the grated cheddar cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until combined.
- Stir in the chopped jalapeños (and cilantro, if using). Mix until the dough comes together. The dough may be a bit crumbly at first, but just continue mixing, and it will form into a soft dough.
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Chill the Dough:
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the shortbread hold its shape during baking.
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Shape the Shortbread:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once chilled, roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. You can either cut the dough into traditional shortbread rectangles, circles, or any shape you like using a cookie cutter.
- Alternatively, you can roll the dough into a log, slice it into rounds, and bake them as round shortbread cookies.
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Bake:
- Place the shaped dough pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your shortbread.
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the shortbread to cool completely on a wire rack. The shortbread will firm up as it cools.
- Serve and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!
These shortbread cookies are a fun, savory treat perfect for a snack or appetizer. The sharp cheddar cheese and the heat from the jalapeños make them a great party snack or addition to a cheese board. Let me know if you want any variations or more details!
