Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread
Imagine taking a bite of a buttery shortbread that surprises you with the kick of zesty jalapeño and the comforting richness of melted cheese. This recipe, for Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a twist on the classic combining the elegance of a traditional biscuit with daring flavors of spicy peppers and sharp cheese. It's perfect, for those who enjoy a touch of heat in their treats as these savory bites offer a combination of textures and flavors that will awaken your taste buds and elevate any gathering into a gourmet experience.
30 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 tbsp 1 stick cold butter, cubed
- 2 c grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 2-3 fresh jalapeño peppers finely minced
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl combine 1 1/2 cups of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 8 tablespoons of butter cut into cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or two forks to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like crumbs.
- Gently mix in one beaten egg until combined.
- Fold in 2 cups of cheese and the minced jalapeños until everything comes together as a dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball wrap it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Take out the chilled dough. Roll it into balls about 1 inch, in size. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper making sure they are 2 inches apart.
- Slightly flatten each ball using the bottom of a glass or jar.
- Bake in the preheated oven, for around 14 to 18 minutes. Until you notice the edges starting to turn brown.
- Allow the shortbreads to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For those who march to the beat of the gluten-free drum, this Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread can easily join your culinary parade. Swap the all-purpose flour with a trustworthy gluten-free flour blend - one that boasts a mix of rice, potato, tapioca, maize, and buckwheat flours often hits the right note for texture and taste. If your chosen blend is missing the magic of xanthan gum, sprinkle a little in to help your dough find its groove and hold together like a beautiful symphony. Remember, gluten-free flour dances differently with moisture, so play it by ear and be ready to adjust the flour quantity slightly to achieve the perfect dough consistency.