Jalapeno Popper Bites (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
1 cup (113 g) Monterey jack cheese, freshly shredded.
02 -
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature.
03 -
3 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced.
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic, minced.
05 -
½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour.
06 -
¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
07 -
¼ teaspoon pepper.
08 -
2 large eggs, room temperature.
09 -
2 teaspoons water.
10 -
1 cup (108 g) plain bread crumbs.
11 -
½ teaspoon garlic powder.
12 -
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
13 -
Vegetable or canola oil for frying.
Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine the shredded Monterey jack cheese, cream cheese, jalapenos, and garlic. Mix well.
02 -
Scoop out 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form into tight balls. Place the cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
03 -
Freeze the cheese balls for about 20-30 minutes to help them firm up.
04 -
Prepare three plates: one with the flour, salt, and pepper mixed together; another with whisked eggs and water; and the third with bread crumbs, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
05 -
Dredge each cheese ball in the flour mixture, then coat in the egg mixture, and finally coat in the bread crumb mixture. Ensure each ball is well-coated at each stage.
06 -
In a large skillet, heat ¼ inch of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
07 -
Working in batches, fry the cheese balls for about 3 minutes, turning until they are golden brown on all sides.
08 -
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot.
Notes:
01 -
These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties and gatherings.
02 -
Adjust the amount of jalapenos or cayenne for desired spice level.