Description
Irresistibly crunchy treats filled with creamy cheese, jalapenos, and bacon, perfect for snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (enough to fill skillet to about ¼-inch depth)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, and crumbled bacon. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the cheese mixture and roll it into balls. Place the formed balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
- Prepare three shallow bowls for coating: one with flour, salt, and black pepper; the second with whisked eggs and water; and the third with breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Dredge each cheese ball in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure even coating.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry a few coated cheese balls in the hot oil for approximately 3 minutes, turning occasionally until golden-brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or spicy aioli.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is maintained to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by altering the amount of jalapenos or cayenne pepper used.
- For a vegetarian option, omit bacon.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg