Description

Jalapeno Popper Bites are deliciously crispy, deep-fried cheese balls filled with gooey pepper jack and cream cheese, spicy diced jalapeños, and savory bacon bits. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, these bites offer a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and crunchy textures that make an irresistible appetizer or party snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
3 jalapenos (seeded and diced)
¼ cup chopped bacon
2 tbsp sriracha sauce

Breading

½ cup all purpose flour
2 eggs (beaten)
½ cup panko bread crumbs
½ cup plain bread crumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt

Frying Oil

Peanut oil or canola oil (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, diced jalapenos, chopped bacon, and sriracha sauce until evenly mixed.
Form and Freeze Bites: Scoop the cheese mixture and shape it into bite-sized balls. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up for easier breading.
Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and combine panko bread crumbs, plain bread crumbs, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a third bowl.
Heat Oil for Frying: Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large pot fitted with a thermometer to 350˚F, ensuring proper frying temperature for a crispy exterior.
Bread the Cheese Balls: Remove cheese balls from the freezer. Coat each ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to fully cover.
Fry the Bites: Carefully place several coated bites into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Store Leftovers: Once cooled, store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to easily combine with other ingredients.
Freezing the cheese balls before breading helps maintain their shape during frying.
Adjust the amount of diced jalapenos and sriracha if you prefer more or less heat.
Use an oil with a high smoke point such as peanut or canola oil for frying.
Keep an eye on oil temperature to prevent the bites from absorbing too much oil or burning.
Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, but reheating in an oven or air fryer can help maintain crispness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: jalapeno popper bites, fried appetizers, cheese balls, jalapeno recipes, spicy snacks, party appetizers, deep fried snacks