A delightful savory take on the traditional thumbprint cookie, this Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizer is buttery, sharp with cheddar, and irresistibly filled with smoky-sweet bacon jam. These bite-sized treats are ideal for entertaining, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a game day spread, or simply looking to impress guests with a unique and flavorful appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These savory thumbprint bites strike the perfect balance of rich, cheesy goodness and sweet, smoky bacon flavor. They’re elegant enough for cocktail parties but comforting and approachable for casual snacking. With a buttery cheddar base and a punch of bacon jam in every bite, these appetizers are both memorable and incredibly easy to make. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, making party prep a breeze.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cheesy Thumbprint Cookies:

1 cup all-purpose flour
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Bacon Jam:

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll into balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
Press a thumbprint or the back of a spoon into the center of each dough ball to create a small well.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and firm to the touch. Remove and let cool slightly.
Meanwhile, make the bacon jam: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving the drippings.
Add diced onion to the drippings and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and the cooked bacon.
Simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency.
Spoon a small amount of the bacon jam into the center of each cooled thumbprint. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 18 appetizers
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per Serving: 160 kcal

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a meat-free filling.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough or a dash of hot sauce to the bacon jam.
Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the dough for added flavor.
Sweet Swap: Substitute the bacon jam with onion jam or pepper jelly for a different savory-sweet profile.
Mini Quiches: Press the dough into mini muffin tins and fill with a quiche-style egg and cheese mixture for a different texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover thumbprints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes to refresh their texture. For make-ahead convenience, the dough can be prepared and shaped in advance, then baked and filled closer to serving time.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookies and prepare the bacon jam in advance. Assemble just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, the dough can be rolled into balls and frozen raw. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Try gouda, parmesan, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

How long does bacon jam last?

Bacon jam can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 1 week.

Can I make this without bacon?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version using caramelized onions and mushrooms.

Are these best served warm or cold?

They are delicious either way, but slightly warm enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I use store-bought bacon jam?

Yes, high-quality store-bought bacon jam can be used for convenience.

What’s the best way to press the thumbprint?

Use the back of a round measuring spoon for an even and clean indentation.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

How do I keep them from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough briefly before baking can help maintain their shape.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are a standout addition to any entertaining spread. Richly savory with a buttery, cheesy base and the depth of homemade bacon jam, they offer a playful and elegant twist on traditional thumbprint cookies. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re guaranteed to become a go-to favorite for parties, holidays, or anytime snacking.