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.
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.
