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Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
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Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are creamy, spicy, and loaded with crispy bacon, combining bold flavors of jalapeños, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar into bite-sized, crunchy-coated cheese balls. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game days, holidays, or casual gatherings, these easy-to-make snacks can be customized to your preferred spice level and prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crispy and chopped
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Coating

  • 1 cup crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika mixed into coating for extra flavor

Optional Spices and Variations

  • Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (for extra kick)
  • Diced pickled jalapeños or hot sauce (for spicy upgrade)
  • Dairy-free cream cheese alternative (for lactose intolerance)
  • Alternative cheeses: pepper jack or Monterey Jack
  • Herbs like fresh cilantro or chives
  • Toasted nuts (for vegetarian version instead of bacon)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces. Finely dice the jalapeños, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing.
  2. Mix the Cheese Base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped green onions. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Add Bacon and Jalapeños: Gently fold in the cooked bacon bits and diced jalapeños to evenly distribute the smoky flavor and heat throughout the cheese mixture.
  4. Shape the Cheese Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls for even size and presentation.
  5. Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each ball in crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs, optionally mixed with smoked paprika, to create a crunchy exterior.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Place the coated cheese balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
  • Use a cookie scoop to maintain uniform size for professional presentation.
  • Adjust heat by removing jalapeño seeds or adding more for extra spice.
  • Use fully cooked crispy bacon for the best texture and flavor.
  • Prepare cheese balls up to a day ahead and store chilled to save time.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute coating with gluten-free crackers or panko.
  • Freeze uncooked cheese balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw frozen cheese balls overnight in refrigerator and warm in 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon jalapeño popper, cheese balls, appetizer, party snack, spicy cheese balls, bacon cheese appetizer, jalapeño cheese balls

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/bacon-jalapeo-popper-cheese-balls/