Avocado Bacon Bites (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
(2) 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened.
02 -
3 large avocados, diced small.
03 -
1 lb bacon, crisp and crumbled.
04 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded.
05 -
1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded.
06 -
½ cup diced jalapenos (pickled or fresh).
07 -
½ cup green onions, sliced.
08 -
½ cup cilantro, chopped.
09 -
¼ cup red onions, diced.
10 -
1 tsp garlic salt.
11 -
½ tsp Cajun seasoning.
12 -
½ tsp black pepper.
13 -
1 tsp lime juice.
14 -
1 cup buttermilk.
15 -
1 egg.
16 -
1 cup flour.
17 -
1-2 cups Panko bread crumbs.
18 -
2+ cups vegetable oil.
Instructions:
01 -
Fry the bacon until crispy, then place on a plate lined with paper towels to cool. Crumble and set aside.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until creamy.
03 -
Add the remaining ingredients except for the avocados and stir to combine.
04 -
Gently fold in the diced avocados. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
05 -
Place the flour in one bowl.
06 -
In a second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
07 -
In a third bowl, place the Panko bread crumbs.
08 -
Form the chilled mixture into tablespoon-sized balls.
09 -
Roll each ball in the flour, then dip into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with the Panko bread crumbs.
10 -
Place the coated balls on a baking sheet that will fit in the freezer. Flash freeze for about an hour to help them hold their shape while frying.
11 -
In a large cast iron or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
12 -
Fry 6-8 balls at a time until golden brown, turning frequently, approximately 2 minutes.
13 -
Remove from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes:
01 -
These bites are perfect for any occasion, combining creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Pepper Jack cheeses.
02 -
The jalapenos, green onions, cilantro, and red onions add a fresh, zesty kick.
03 -
Coated in Panko bread crumbs and fried to golden perfection, these bites have a satisfying crunch.