Fried Jalapeno Popper Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Creamy Cheese Filling
01 -
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 -
2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
03 -
3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
04 -
¼ cup cooked bacon, chopped
05 -
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
→ Breading Station
06 -
½ cup all-purpose flour
07 -
2 large eggs, beaten
08 -
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
09 -
½ cup regular breadcrumbs
→ Seasonings & Oil
10 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
12 -
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
13 -
¼ teaspoon salt
14 -
Peanut or canola oil for deep frying
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, diced jalapeños, chopped bacon, and sriracha until everything is well combined.
02 -
Using a small scoop or spoon, form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes until firm.
03 -
Place flour in one bowl and beaten eggs in a second bowl. In a third bowl, combine both breadcrumbs with garlic powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
04 -
Heat your oil in a deep fryer or large heavy pot to 350°F. Use a thermometer to maintain the right temperature for crispy results.
05 -
Working quickly, remove the cheese balls from the freezer. Roll each one in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
06 -
Carefully add several breaded balls to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until they're golden brown and crispy all over.
07 -
Remove the fried bites with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
08 -
Let them cool for just a minute or two before serving - the cheese inside will be molten hot! Serve while they're still warm and crispy.
# Notes:
01 -
Freezing the cheese balls is crucial to prevent them from falling apart when frying
02 -
Make sure oil temperature stays at 350°F for the best crispy coating
03 -
These can be breaded ahead of time and stored in the fridge overnight before frying
04 -
Can also be frozen for up to 3 months after breading - thaw before frying