Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread recipe! This delightful twist on a classic shortbread combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, the kick of jalapeño peppers, and the buttery goodness of shortbread. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soirée or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the world of gourmet baking and create a culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 lightly beaten egg
- 8 tablespoons cubed cold butter
- 2 cups grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, finely minced
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cubed cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese and Jalapeños: Stir in the grated cheese and finely minced jalapeño peppers until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the lightly beaten egg to the dough, stirring until it comes together into a cohesive ball. If the dough seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of cold water as needed.
- Shape Shortbread: Transfer the dough onto 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.
- 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 lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the shortbread 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:
- Adjust Spice Level: Control the heat level of the shortbread by adjusting the amount of minced jalapeño peppers. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before mincing.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar or pepper jack cheese is recommended for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as sharp white cheddar, Gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the shortbread by adding fresh herbs such as chopped cilantro, parsley, or chives to the dough.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Use cold cubed butter and omit the egg to achieve a crumbly texture. Ensure the cheese used is keto-friendly and low in carbs. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Low Carb Option: Follow the keto option above and further reduce the carb content by using a combination of almond flour and coconut flour. Use a low-carb cheese such as aged cheddar or Monterey Jack. Skip the egg and rely on the cold butter to bind the dough together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make the shortbread dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the shortbread dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out and baking.
Q: Can I freeze the shortbread dough?
A: Absolutely! The shortbread dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator before rolling it out and baking.
Q: How should I store the baked shortbread?
A: Store the baked shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the baked shortbread for longer storage. Simply wrap the cooled cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I customize the shape of the shortbread?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use cookie cutters to create fun shapes such as stars, hearts, or even jalapeño peppers. You can also roll the dough into logs and slice it into rounds for a classic shortbread look.
Q: Can I make a sweet version of this shortbread?
A: While this recipe focuses on savory flavors, you can certainly add a touch of sweetness by incorporating a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the dough. You can also sprinkle the tops of the shortbread with a bit of sugar before baking for a hint of sweetness.
With its irresistible combination of cheesy goodness and spicy jalapeño flavor, Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is a gourmet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to your favorite soup or salad, these savory shortbread cookies are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and let your culinary creativity shine as you whip up a batch of these delectable delights. Your taste buds will thank you
