# Ingredient List:
→ Cheese dough
01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 2 cups sharp cheddar, finely shredded
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Filling
07 - 24 large green olives, pitted (e.g., Spanish Manzanilla)
→ Assembly
08 - 24 appetizer skewers or toothpicks
# How to Make:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, shredded cheddar, softened butter, cayenne (if using), smoked paprika, and salt. Mix with your hands until a cohesive, soft dough forms.
03 - Pat the dough into a rough rectangle and divide into 24 equal pieces—about 1 tablespoon of dough per piece.
04 - Flatten each portion in your palm, place one pitted olive in the center, then wrap the dough fully around the olive and roll into a smooth ball, sealing seams tightly.
05 - Place the formed balls on the prepared sheet, spacing them evenly. For neater results, chill the tray in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking.
06 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the exterior is golden and the balls feel firm to the touch.
07 - Allow the bites to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then thread each warm ball onto a skewer or toothpick. Serve warm or at room temperature.
