Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread

If you’ve never tasted savory shortbread before, you’re in for an unforgettable treat. Imagine the buttery, crumbly texture of classic shortbread, but with a spicy kick of jalapeños and a salty, cheesy richness that melts on your tongue. These Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread cookies are everything you didn’t know you needed — delicate yet bold, comforting yet fiery. They’re the perfect make-ahead appetizer, snack, or addition to any holiday platter.

Ingredients

• 1 cup 2 sticks / 226 g unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups 220 g all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional for color and flavor
• 1 ½ cups 150 g sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• ¼ cup 25 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 fresh jalapeño seeded and finely minced (or use 2 for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño brine optional for tang

Instructions

• Cream the Butter and Cheese
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined and creamy.
• Add Dry Ingredients
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add this mixture to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed just until a soft dough forms.
• Fold in Jalapeños
• Stir in the finely minced jalapeño and the brine (if using). The dough should be soft but not sticky. If too soft, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of flour.
• Shape and Chill
• Turn the dough out onto plastic wrap. Form into a log about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm enough to slice.
• Preheat Oven
• Heat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Slice and Bake
• Slice the chilled log into ¼-inch (6 mm) rounds and arrange them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until edges are light golden.
• Cool and Serve
• Let shortbread cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.