Cheese And Olive Swirls
Cheesy, smoky olive swirls packed with sharp cheddar, butter, and a hint of Tabasco—perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer that satisfies bold flavor lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend grated cheddar, butter, and a dash of Tabasco until smooth.
- Stir in sifted flour until dough comes together.
- Gather the dough into a ball and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll the chilled dough into a 6 x 10-inch rectangle between two sheets of wax paper.
- Remove the top sheet of wax paper and sprinkle the dough with olives.
- Begin rolling from the long end in a jelly roll style, sealing the edges as you go.
- Wrap the rolled dough in wax paper and twist the ends to secure.
- Ensure the roll is tightly sealed.
- Chill the wrapped roll for 1 hour.
- Cut the roll into 1/4-inch slices and arrange them 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 10 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful swirl, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like oregano to the cheese mixture. If you don't have sharp cheddar, any cheese with a strong flavor, such as Gruyère or pepper jack, can work. Substitute the Tabasco with a different hot sauce if desired, or leave it out for a milder taste. For a twist, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes alongside the olives.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese and olive swirls are excellent as a party appetizer or snack. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce or a zesty dip. They pair beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Chickpea Spread On Baguette or a fresh salad for a light meal. Enjoy them as part of a cheese platter for a delightful gathering.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled swirls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Olive Swirls contains roughly 279 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 23g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and chill it for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. Just ensure that it is well-wrapped in wax paper to prevent it from drying out.
What type of olives should I use?
You can use any variety of olives, such as Kalamata, green olives, or black olives, based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them finely to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the swirls.
Can I freeze the swirls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled dough before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, simply remove from the freezer and slice while still frozen, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).