Cheesy Bites Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1 tsp salt until evenly distributed.

Cut in butter

Add 4 tablespoons cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining.

Mix wet ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons milk and 1 egg. Pour the wet mixture into the flour-butter mixture and stir just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.

Chill (optional)

If dough feels very soft or warm, cover and chill for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle. Otherwise proceed immediately.

Prepare cheeses

In a medium bowl, combine 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 4 oz softened cream cheese, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Use a spatula to blend until smooth and cohesive.

Season filling

Stir 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, and 1/4 tsp black pepper into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.

Portion filling

Scoop the cheese mixture into roughly 12 equal portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and set on a small plate or tray. If mixture is very soft, chill for 10 minutes to firm up for easier handling.

Divide dough

On a lightly floured surface, gently pat the dough into a rough rectangle about 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thick. Use a 2-inch round cutter (or a knife) to cut 12 rounds. Re-roll scraps as needed, but handle minimally to keep bites tender.

Fill and seal

Place a rounded portion of cheese filling in the center of each dough round. Fold dough over to enclose the filling and pinch the edges to seal, forming a small ball or half-moon. Tuck seams underneath. Ensure seals are tight to prevent leaking.

Arrange on sheet

Place the filled bites seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each to allow for slight expansion.

Egg wash

Whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon milk. Brush each bite lightly with the egg wash to promote browning. If desired, brush with 1 tablespoon melted butter after baking for extra shine and flavor.

Optional sprinkle

Lightly sprinkle about 1/4 tsp coarse or flaky sea salt across the bites if you like a salty finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 12–16 minutes, until golden brown and puffed. Watch closely after 12 minutes as oven times vary.

Cool and serve

Remove from oven and, if using, immediately brush with melted butter. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for 5 more minutes. Serve warm.