Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread (Buttery, Bold & Totally Irresistible!)

How to Make Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread (Step-by-Step)

1. Cream the Butter & Cheese

Beat softened butter until smooth, then mix in cheddar and Parmesan. It should be rich, creamy, and irresistible.

2. Add the Dry Ingredients

Whisk your flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add to the butter mixture and beat just until a soft dough forms.

3. Fold in the Jalapeños

Stir in minced jalapeños and brine. If dough seems too soft, add 1–2 tablespoons flour.

4. Shape & Chill

Form into a 2-inch-wide log and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill 30 minutes until firm.

5. Preheat

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet.

6. Slice & Bake

Cut into ¼-inch rounds and bake 18–22 minutes until lightly golden at the edges.

7. Cool & Enjoy

Let them rest for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

What to Serve With Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread

Oh, these pair beautifully with:

• Charcuterie boards

• Tomato soup or chili

• Cream cheese spreads

• Honey butter (trust me!)

• Cocktails or wine

• Holiday appetizer platters

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies

• Use cold logs — warm dough spreads too much.

• Shred your own cheese for better texture.

• Chop jalapeños very finely for even distribution.

• Don’t overbake — golden edges are the sweet spot.

• For ultra-crisp cookies, chill the sliced rounds for 10 minutes before baking.

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: 3–4 days in an airtight container

• Refrigerator: up to 1 week

• Freezer (baked): 2 months

• Freezer (dough log): 3 months — slice and bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes

General Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 18–22 minutes

• Yield: ~24 shortbread cookies

• Skill Level: Easy

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes! This dough freezes beautifully. Freeze the wrapped log and slice it straight from the freezer.

Are these very spicy?

Not usually. One jalapeño gives gentle heat. Add two if you want a punchier cookie.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Absolutely — these were almost made FOR entertaining. Make the dough up to 3 days ahead.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly shredded melts more smoothly.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s equal parts elegant, addictive, and effortless, this Cheesy Jalapeño Shortbread is it. They’re buttery, bold, beautifully cheesy, and endlessly versatile — truly the kind of savory bake you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for every holiday, gathering, or snack craving.

And if you love baking with a touch of heat or seasonal flavor, don’t miss these peachy favorites next:

• Peach Cobbler Cookies

• Brown Butter Peach Crumble Bars

• Honeyed Peach Scones

Share the Love!

If you make this recipe, please leave a review, pin it, and share your photos on Pinterest — I love seeing your creations!

Nutritional Information (Approx. per cookie)

• Calories: ~135

• Fat: 11g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Protein: 3g

• Sodium: 120mg

Enjoy every crumb of this spicy, cheesy bliss!