Awesome Popper Cookies

These were originally going to be Jalapeno Poppers Cookies but after the first batch my imagination went wild and I thought of all kinds of things that would be AWESOME added instead of chopped jalapenos - which are pretty awesome in and of themselves!

This makes a tender, pillowy, savory cookie that makes a powerful flavor delivery mechanism for whatever add-ins you choose to combine in the mix.  AWESOME is the acceptable term for their description.

(Two batches down and I haven't gotten a picture yet!!! - They're THAT GOOD!!!)

Base Ingredients

One 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1 cup Parmesan, grated (yes, even the stuff in the green can will work)
1 cup shredded 4 cheese blend (or your choice of shredded cheeses)

1 large egg, beaten

Add Ins:  Use any (or any combination) of these add-ins to make your AWESOME Poppers Cookies

4 tablespoons seeded and chopped jalapeno peppers 
1 tablespoon Dry Hidden Valley Ranch mix
4 tablespoonsf crisp fried bacon or pancetta, chopped
4 tablespoons finely diced ham or prosciutto
4 tablespoons minced Italian or breakfast sausage
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
4 tablespoons chopped smoked salmon
4 tablespoons chopped salad olives

Coverings: Use any (or any combination) of these options to cover the outside your AWESOME Poppers Cookies

almond meal
sesame seeds (black and/or white)
poppy seeds
chia seeds
hemp seeds

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix the softened cream cheese, Parmesan, shredded cheese and egg to form the base. 
Incorporate your add-in(s) into the base.
Shape into balls using about 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of base for each. Make them about the size of the last joint of your thumb.
Roll the balls in one or more of your Coverings. 
Place on a foil, parchment or silpat lined baking sheet and flatten slightly.
Bake in the center of your oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until golden brown. 

Serve at room temperature

Cooks Notes: If you don't want to wait for your cream cheese to soften, pop it (unwrapped) into the microwave for 30 seconds.
The amounts stated for the add-ins are suggestions.  Adjust to your own taste.
Use a combination of peppers depending on your personal heat tolerance (serranos or even habaneros - if you dare) - or none at all! 
Split the base among several different add-ins for a tasting party!