# Components:
→ Cheese Dough
01 - 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
02 - 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
03 - 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
05 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 tsp salt
→ Filling
07 - 24 large green olives, pitted (such as Spanish Manzanilla)
→ Assembly
08 - 24 appetizer-sized skewers or toothpicks
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine flour, cheddar cheese, butter, cayenne (if using), paprika, and salt. Mix with your hands until a soft dough forms.
03 - Pat dough into a rough rectangle and cut into 24 even pieces (about 1 tablespoon each).
04 - Flatten each piece of dough in your palm, place one olive in the center, and wrap the dough around to seal it completely. Roll into balls.
05 - Arrange balls on the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, chill for 10 minutes for neater results.
06 - Bake for 16–18 minutes until golden and firm. Let cool for 5 minutes.
07 - Thread each warm cheese ball onto a skewer or toothpick. Serve immediately, warm or at room temperature.
