Bacon Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls (Print Version)
Spicy bacon, creamy cheese, and chives make irresistible bite-sized appetizers with a crunchy coating.
# Ingredients:
→ Cheese Mixture
01 -
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 -
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
03 -
1/2 cup fresh chives, minced
04 -
1 cup jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
05 -
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
06 -
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
07 -
1/2 small red onion, minced (optional)
08 -
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 -
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
→ Coating
10 -
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
# Steps:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeños, 1 cup of crumbled bacon, minced chives, optional red onion, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until a uniform and smooth mixture forms.
02 -
Portion the mixture and roll into small balls using clean hands or a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizing.
03 -
Roll each cheese ball in the reserved crumbled bacon, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
04 -
Arrange cheese balls on a tray and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow them to set and develop structure.
05 -
Serve chilled with crackers, pretzels, or assorted fresh vegetables.
# Notes:
01 -
For a milder flavor, substitute part of the jalapeño with diced bell pepper.
02 -
Ensure cheese balls are well chilled before serving to maintain ideal texture.