Introduction

Get ready to make an incredible CHEESY JALAPEÑO SHORTBREAD that everyone will love! This recipe combines simple ingredients with great flavor to create something truly special. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Follow along as we show you how to make this wonderful recipe step by step!

Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread

Savory, buttery, and addictive, these shortbread crackers are a spicy twist on the classic cookie. They’re crisp, packed with sharp cheese and a kick of jalapeño, and perfect for snacking or serving with dips.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Chill Time: 1 hour | Bake Time: 15-20 mins | Makes: About 36 crackers

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Ingredients:

For the Shortbread:

· 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
· ¼ cup (35g) cornstarch or rice flour (for extra tenderness)
· ½ tsp salt
· ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
· ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
· ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, softened
· 1 ½ cups (150g) finely grated sharp cheese (cheddar, Pepper Jack, or a mix)
· 1-2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed, finely minced (about 2-3 tbsp)
· 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives or cilantro (optional)

For Topping (optional):

· Flaky sea salt (like Maldon)
· Extra grated cheese
· Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

· In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Set aside.
· In a larger bowl, using a hand mixer or wooden spoon, beat the softened butter until creamy.
· Gradually add the grated cheese and beat until well combined. The mixture will be thick and paste-like.
· Add the minced jalapeños and herbs (if using). Mix until evenly distributed.
· Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-cheese mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until a crumbly dough forms. It may not come together completely yet.

2. Shape & Chill

· Turn the dough out onto a clean surface. Knead gently just until it comes together into a smooth ball.
· Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Roll tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap.
· Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until very firm. (Can be chilled up to 3 days or frozen for 1 month.)

3. Slice & Bake

· Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
· Slice the chilled log into ¼-inch (6mm) thick rounds. If the dough cracks, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
· Place rounds on baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. They won’t spread much.
· If desired, sprinkle tops lightly with flaky sea salt or extra cheese.
· Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden and the bottoms are lightly browned.
· Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.

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Success Tips

· Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
· Control the Heat: Remove seeds and white ribs from jalapeños for mild flavor; leave some in for more heat.
· Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the shortbread tender.
· Uniform Slices: For even baking, try to slice the rounds to the same thickness.
· Cool Completely: The shortbread crisps as it cools, so be patient before tasting.

Serving Suggestions

· With Dip: Serve with salsa, guacamole, ranch dip, or a cool sour cream & lime crema.
· Cheese Board: An excellent addition to a charcuterie or cheese platter.
· Soup Companion: Perfect for dunking into tomato soup or chili.
· Cocktail Hour: A sophisticated pairing with a cold beer, margarita, or glass of wine.

Storage

· Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
· Freeze Dough: Wrap the log tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to bake time.
· Freeze Baked: Bake and cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Re-crisp in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-8 minutes.

Delicious Variations

· Bacon-Cheddar-Jalapeño: Add ½ cup finely chopped, cooked bacon to the dough.
· Everything Bagel: Roll the log in Everything Bagel seasoning before slicing.
· Smoked Gouda: Use smoked Gouda cheese and add 1 tsp smoked paprika.
· Sweet & Spicy: Add 1 tbsp honey to the butter and use Pepper Jack cheese.
· Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, spicy bites—they disappear fast!

Conclusion

Congratulations on making this delicious CHEESY JALAPEÑO SHORTBREAD! We hope you and your loved ones enjoyed every bite of this flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and we’re confident it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

🍽️ Looking for more amazing recipes? Browse through our collection of delicious dishes on YumPost! From quick weeknight dinners to impressive desserts, we have something for every taste and occasion.

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