# What You Need:
→ Cheese dough
01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 2 cups sharp cheddar, 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 (for example Spanish Manzanilla)
→ Assembly
08 - 24 appetizer skewers or toothpicks
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, shredded cheddar, softened butter, cayenne (if using), smoked paprika and salt; work with your hands until a cohesive, soft dough forms.
03 - Pat the dough into a rough rectangle, then divide into 24 equal portions (about 1 tablespoon each).
04 - Flatten a portion in your palm, place one pitted olive in the center, wrap the dough fully around the olive to seal, and roll gently to form a smooth ball.
05 - Place the formed balls on the prepared sheet, spacing them evenly; optionally chill on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to firm the dough and improve final shape.
06 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, until the exterior is golden and the centers are set; remove from oven and let rest on the sheet for 5 minutes.
07 - Thread each warm ball onto a skewer or toothpick and serve immediately, warm or at room temperature, with mustard or a preferred dip.
