Delightfully crispy cheese rounds topped with a sweet strawberry cream and a savory tomato jam. A sophisticated appetizer or brunch bite that balances rich, fruity, and tangy flavors in a single mouthful.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:12 cheese rounds 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Fusion
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp strawberry preserves or jam
1/2 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Tomato Jam:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese into small mounds on the sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon.
Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let cool completely on the sheet to crisp up.
While cheese rounds cool, prepare the strawberry cream by mixing cream cheese, strawberry preserves, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
To make the tomato jam, heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, until tomatoes break down and mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
To assemble, place a dollop of strawberry cream on each cheese round, followed by a small spoonful of tomato jam.
Serve immediately as an appetizer or elegant snack.
Notes
Cheese rounds can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.
Use flavored cream cheese (e.g., honey or berry) for variation.
Tomato jam also pairs well with crackers or toast.