Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of cheese wafts through the kitchen, it’s impossible not to feel a wave of nostalgia for comforting homemade treats. These Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies are about to become your new go-to appetizer, ready to impress family and friends at any gathering. With a crispy exterior hugging a luscious cheese center, they’re irresistible on their own, but the addition of bold Bourbon Tomato Jam takes them to a whole new level. Not only are they vegetarian-friendly and freezer-friendly, but you can also easily adapt the recipe to fit dairy-free or gluten-free diets. Who knew a cookie could be so versatile? Let’s dive into the world of savory delights—aren’t you curious to see just how easy it is to create this culinary masterpiece? Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Elevated Flavors: The combination of rich cheeses and the vibrant Bourbon Tomato Jam offers a unique twist that sets these cookies apart from ordinary snacks. Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for special diets, these cookies can cater to everyone—from gluten-free eaters to vegans. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze for a quick snack. Simply roll, fill, and bake when you’re ready for delightful treats! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these savory delights are guaranteed to spark conversation and joy among guests. Pair them with a vibrant veggie platter or some Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks for a well-rounded appetizer experience! You won’t want to miss out on the savory goodness of these cookies! Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients For the Dough Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option. White Cheddar Cheese – Adds a tangy, savory flavor; feel free to swap in sharp cheddar or vegan cheese for a twist. Monterey Jack Cheese – Offers creaminess and texture; mozzarella is a milder alternative that works wonderfully. Deseeded Jalapeno (finely chopped) – Infuses a spicy kick; adjust the quantity or omit for milder cookies. Fresh Rosemary (finely chopped) – Contributes an aromatic herbal essence; dried rosemary or thyme makes a fine substitute. Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor balance; you can easily use sea salt as an alternative. White Sugar – Adds a subtle touch of sweetness; feel free to replace with coconut sugar or reduce the quantity. Egg – Binds everything together for a cohesive dough; substitute with a flax egg or applesauce for a vegan version. All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookies; swap for a gluten-free flour blend to suit dietary needs. Semolina – Provides delightful texture and crunch; fine cornmeal can work well as a replacement. For the Bourbon Tomato Jam Cherry Tomatoes – The star of the jam; any ripe variety will enhance the flavor beautifully. Sugar (for jam) – Sweetens the jam; consider honey or agave if you’re looking for natural alternatives. Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity and preserves the jam; lemon juice can substitute if needed. Chili Flakes – Introduces heat; adjust or omit for a milder jam. Garlic (minced) – Deepens the flavor profile; garlic powder can also be a quick substitute. Sweet Onion (diced) – Contributes sweetness and texture; shallots make an excellent alternative. Cumin (pinch) – Infuses warmth; coriander can offer a different but delightful flavor note. Kosher Salt (in jam) – Balances the sweetness; use sea salt if you prefer. Bourbon – Elevates the jam’s flavor; use non-alcoholic whiskey or stock for a mocktail-friendly twist. Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the utterly delicious and irresistible Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies that are destined to be the star of your next gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Step 1: Dough Preparation In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of white sugar, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until light and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes. Then, blend in 1 cup of finely grated white cheddar and ½ cup of Monterey Jack, followed by 1 deseeded and finely chopped jalapeno, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh rosemary. Finally, mix in 1 large egg until completely incorporated. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ¼ cup of semolina. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the cheesy mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon, mixing gently until a cohesive dough forms. Pay attention to the texture; it should be slightly sticky but hold together well. Step 3: Chill Dough Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This chilling step is essential, as it firms up the dough and helps maintain its shape during baking, ensuring your Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies turn out just right! Step 4: Form Cookies Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it into 1.5-inch balls, placing them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheets. Press deeply into the center of each ball with a moistened thumb to create ample space for the jam. Step 5: Fill and Bake Spoon your Bourbon Tomato Jam into the indents of each thumbprint, filling them generously. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect crispy exterior! Step 6: Cooling and Storage Once baked, allow the Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies to cool on the trays for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store these delicious treats in an airtight container to maintain their delightful crispy texture for up to 5 days, or freeze unfilled dough balls for easy prep later! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic and refrigerate. Additionally, the Bourbon Tomato Jam can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to let those flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to impress guests, roll and shape the cookies, create imprints, fill them with the chilled jam, and bake according to the recipe instructions. With these prep options, you can enjoy delicious cookies with minimal effort on the day of your gathering! What to Serve with Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Elevate your appetizer game with delightful pairings that will impress and satisfy every guest. Creamy Spinach Dip: This lush, velvety dip is a match made in heaven, giving a smooth contrast to the crispy cookies. Serve with colorful veggies for a vibrant platter. Fresh Arugula Salad: A zesty arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite, refreshing your palate between bites of savory cookies. Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs exquisitely with the rich flavors of the cookies. Think bold blue cheese, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy nuts for extra texture. Garlic Herb Flatbread: Warm, toasted flatbreads bring a delightful crunch to your spread—perfect for dipping into the bourbon tomato jam for double the flavor. For a sweet finish, consider serving with Chocolate-Dipped Fruits: Strawberries or bananas drizzled in chocolate add a luscious sweetness that balances the savory aspects of the cookies. Sparkling Rosé: This bubbly drink brings a celebratory touch, balancing the savory notes beautifully while enhancing the overall flavor experience. Situate a few glasses next to your delectable cookies and watch them disappear! Expert Tips for Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Baking Time Awareness: Watch closely during baking to avoid overbaking—it can lead to dry cookies. Adjust time based on your oven’s quirks! Chill for Best Results: Don’t skip the chilling step; it solidifies the dough, supporting shape retention during baking. If too soft, briefly chill again. Experiment with Cheeses: Mix and match cheeses to discover your favorite flavor combo; don’t hesitate to try different varieties for your Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies! Jam Consistency Check: When making Bourbon Tomato Jam, ensure it reaches a thicker consistency for ideal filling—testing with a spoon can help gauge readiness. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes play a crucial role in flavor; opt for seasonal produce to elevate your cookies! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Airtight Container: Store baked Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their crispy texture. Freezing Unfilled Dough: For easy prep in advance, freeze unfilled dough balls for up to 3 months. Just roll, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, you can bake frozen dough balls straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for the best results. Freezing Filled Cookies: Avoid freezing baked cookies filled with jam, as the texture may change once thawed. Instead, fill them fresh before serving for optimal taste! Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Variations Feel free to make these delectable cookies your own with delightful substitutions and twists that cater to your personal taste! Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly version. It’s just as creamy and delightful! Different Cheeses: Test out gouda or feta for an exciting new flavor twist; each cheese brings its unique character to the table. Your taste buds will thank you! Herb Swaps: Use dried thyme or fresh tarragon in place of rosemary to explore new aromatic notes and elevate the cookie’s essence. Gluten-Free: Easily replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful bites without worry. Jam Variations: Swap the Bourbon Tomato Jam for spicy peach or rich fig preserves, adding a sweet-savory flair that will wow your guests. Texture Twists: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or crunchy breadcrumbs into the dough for added texture; they make every bite an adventure. Heat Levels: If you prefer a mild kick, use ground black pepper instead of chili flakes in the jam, or simply omit it for a completely soothing flavor. Extra Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the dough for an umami explosion, making these cookies unforgettable! And while you’re at it, don’t miss out on pairing these beauties with a vibrant veggie platter or some scrumptious Cheesy Corn Fritters for an appetizing spread! Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe cherry tomatoes for the jam? Look for plump, shiny cherry tomatoes that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel mushy. Ripe tomatoes will have a fragrant aroma and will yield slightly when gently pressed. How should I store the Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies? Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze unfilled dough balls for up to 3 months. Just roll them into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a zip-top bag once frozen. Can I freeze the Bourbon Tomato Jam? Absolutely! Allow the jam to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 6 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before using it with your thumbprint cookies. What should I do if the dough is too sticky to work with? If your dough feels sticky, that might be a sign it needs more time in the fridge. Chill it for 15-20 more minutes. If it’s still unmanageable, you can lightly dust your hands and working surface with flour to help form the dough into balls. Are these cookies safe for nut allergies? Yes, the Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies are nut-free, making them suitable for most dietary considerations. However, always double-check your specific cheese and other ingredient labels to ensure they meet individual dietary needs. What are some dairy-free alternatives I can use? For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil and use vegan cheeses in place of white cheddar and Monterey Jack. The flavor might vary slightly, but the result will still be delicious! Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies with Bold Tomato Jam Delight Delightful Cheesy Savory Thumbprint Cookies paired with bold tomato jam, perfect for gatherings and versatile for various diets. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1/2 cup Unsalted Butter softened, margarine for dairy-free1/2 cup White Cheddar Cheese finely grated, or sharp cheddar for a twist1/2 cup Monterey Jack Cheese or mozzarella1 each Deseeded Jalapeno finely chopped, adjust or omit for milder2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary finely chopped, or dried rosemary/thyme1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt or sea salt2 tablespoons White Sugar or coconut sugar1 each Egg or flax egg/applesauce for vegan1 cup All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour blend1/4 cup Semolina or fine cornmealFor the Bourbon Tomato Jam2 cups Cherry Tomatoes any ripe variety1/4 cup Sugar or honey/agave1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar or lemon juice1 teaspoon Chili Flakes adjust or omit for milder2 cloves Garlic minced, or garlic powder1 each Sweet Onion diced, or shallots1 pinch Cumin or coriander1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt or sea salt1/2 cup Bourbon or non-alcoholic whiskey Equipment Mixing bowlbaking sheetsParchment paperSpatulaplastic wrap Method Dough PreparationCream together the butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Blend in the cheeses, jalapeno, and rosemary, then mix in the egg.In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and semolina. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the cheesy mixture until a cohesive dough forms.Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.Form CookiesPreheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them spaced apart. Press securely into each center with a thumb.Spoon Bourbon Tomato Jam into the indents of each thumbprint. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.Cool on trays for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Freeze unfilled dough balls for easier prep in advance. Avoid freezing baked cookies filled with jam. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
