These cheese puffs are a delicious appetizer that combines the sharp flavor of cheese with a buttery, flaky dough wrapped around a savory olive. The contrast of the crispy exterior and the briny olive inside makes them a crowd-pleasing snack. They are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a tasty bite-sized treat.
Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.
Links to find other recipes:
Cheese Puffs
Cheese Puffs FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mild cheddar or even pepper jack for a spicier version.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling helps the dough firm up and makes wrapping the olives easier.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and reheat them before serving.
What kind of olives work best?
Small green olives with pimentos are the best choice for this recipe.
Food History
Cheese-based appetizers have been popular for centuries. In the 20th century, party snacks became more creative, with hosts looking for simple yet flavorful bites. These cheese puffs likely gained popularity in the mid-1900s when home cooks experimented with cheese and dough combinations. The use of olives adds a salty, briny contrast to the rich dough, making them a standout appetizer.
The idea of wrapping cheese or dough around olives can be traced to Mediterranean cuisine, where olives are often paired with bread or cheese. Over time, variations of this recipe have appeared in cookbooks, often using different cheeses, seasonings, and types of olives.
Timeline
- Ancient Times – Olives are cultivated and widely used in Mediterranean diets.
- Middle Ages – Cheese-making becomes more advanced in Europe.
- Mid-1900s – Cheese-based appetizers, including cheese puffs, gain popularity in home kitchens.
- Present Day – Cheese puffs with olives remain a popular party snack.
Recipe Discussion
These cheese puffs have a rich and savory flavor. The combination of sharp cheddar, butter, and flour creates a dough that bakes into a flaky and crispy shell. The paprika adds a subtle warmth, while the salt enhances the overall taste. Wrapping the dough around the olives ensures that each bite has a burst of briny flavor.
Baking at 400°F creates a golden, crispy texture, and serving them warm makes them even more delicious. Because the dough is chilled before baking, it holds its shape well, keeping the olives tucked inside. These cheese puffs can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Preparation Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Chill the dough properly – This prevents it from becoming too sticky to work with.
- Wrap the olives completely – Ensure the dough covers the olive fully to avoid leaks.
- Use pitted olives – This saves time and makes eating them easier.
- Bake until golden – This ensures a crispy and flavorful texture.
- Serve warm – The flavors are best when fresh out of the oven.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Box Grater – Freshly grated cheese melts and blends better.
- Mixing Bowls – A good set makes combining ingredients easier.
- Baking Sheet – Ensures even baking for a crispy texture.
- Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Cooling Rack – Helps the cheese puffs stay crisp after baking.
Serving Suggestions
- With a glass of wine – A dry white wine or sparkling wine pairs well.
- With a dipping sauce – Try ranch or a spicy aioli for extra flavor.
- As part of a cheese board – Serve alongside other cheeses and crackers.
- With fresh vegetables – Carrot and celery sticks add a fresh contrast.
- With soup – A great side for tomato or roasted red pepper soup.
A Savory Party Favorite
These cheese puffs with olives are an easy yet elegant appetizer. The combination of sharp cheese, buttery dough, and briny olives creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as a snack, they are sure to be a hit. They can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for entertaining.
Start Your Recipe Box
- Start your recipe box or your family or friends. View New and Vintage Recipe Boxes
- View Recipe Cards and Templates
- View Recipe Card Protectors and Sleeves
Vintage Goodies
- Vintage Kitchenware on Etsy
- Vintage Recipes on Amazon
- Vintage Cookbooks on eBay
- Vintage Cookbooks on Etsy
Cheese Puffs Recipe
Cheese Puffs
Cheese puffs with olives are a crispy, savory appetizer made with sharp cheddar, butter, flour, and paprika. The dough is wrapped around small green olives and baked until golden brown. Perfect for parties or as a snack.
Ingredients
- ½ pound (1 cup) grated sharp cheese
- ¼ cup soft oleo (margarine)
- ½ cup sifted flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 24 small olives
Instructions
- About 5 hours ahead, blend cheese and oleo.
- Mix well with flour, salt, and paprika.
- Wrap 1 teaspoon of dough around each olive, covering completely.
- Chill for 4 hours.
- Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet at 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve warm. You can make them a day before and reheat before serving.