Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and shredded mozzarella until smooth.
Step 3:
- Add the diced jalapeños, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4:
- Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture into bite-sized balls.
Step 5:
- Place the balls on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
Step 6:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
Step 7:
- Roll each chilled cheese ball in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 8:
- Arrange the coated bites evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 9:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bites are golden and slightly crisp on the outside.
Step 10:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezer:
Freeze unbaked, coated bites for up to 1 month. Reheating:
Reheat in the oven until warmed and crisp again. 🥄 Variations Extra spicy: Leave some jalapeño seeds in Milder version: Use fewer jalapeños Cheese-forward: Add more cheddar Crunch boost: Add a second breadcrumb coating Mini version: Make smaller bites for finger food These variations keep the soul of jalapeño popper bites while letting you tailor the heat and texture. ❓ 10 FAQs Are these very spicy?
Mild to medium, depending on jalapeños used. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and bake when ready. Do I need to fry them?
No, baking works perfectly. Are these kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce jalapeños for less heat. Can I use another cheese?
Yes, mild melting cheeses work well. Why chill before coating?
It helps them hold their shape. Can I air-fry these?
Yes, cook until golden and crisp. Do they reheat well?
Best reheated in the oven. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two baking sheets. What should I serve them with?
They’re great on their own or with simple dips. 🏁 Conclusion These easy jalapeño popper bites are the ultimate bite-sized appetizer—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Simple to prepare and endlessly snackable, they’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Make a batch, watch them disappear, and get ready for requests every time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezer:
Freeze unbaked, coated bites for up to 1 month. Reheating:
Reheat in the oven until warmed and crisp again. 🥄 Variations Extra spicy: Leave some jalapeño seeds in Milder version: Use fewer jalapeños Cheese-forward: Add more cheddar Crunch boost: Add a second breadcrumb coating Mini version: Make smaller bites for finger food These variations keep the soul of jalapeño popper bites while letting you tailor the heat and texture. ❓ 10 FAQs Are these very spicy?
Mild to medium, depending on jalapeños used. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and bake when ready. Do I need to fry them?
No, baking works perfectly. Are these kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce jalapeños for less heat. Can I use another cheese?
Yes, mild melting cheeses work well. Why chill before coating?
It helps them hold their shape. Can I air-fry these?
Yes, cook until golden and crisp. Do they reheat well?
Best reheated in the oven. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two baking sheets. What should I serve them with?
They’re great on their own or with simple dips. 🏁 Conclusion These easy jalapeño popper bites are the ultimate bite-sized appetizer—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Simple to prepare and endlessly snackable, they’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Make a batch, watch them disappear, and get ready for requests every time.