Description

Crispy, spicy Fried Jalapeno Popper Bites are bite-sized snacks filled with creamy cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, bacon, and a hint of sriracha. They are breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection, making them a perfect appetizer or party snack that’s bursting with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
3 jalapenos (seeded and diced)
¼ cup chopped bacon
2 tbsp sriracha sauce

Breading

½ cup all purpose flour
2 eggs (beaten)
½ cup panko bread crumbs
½ cup plain bread crumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt

For Frying

Peanut oil or canola oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, diced jalapenos, chopped bacon, and sriracha sauce. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a spicy, creamy filling.
Shape and freeze: Scoop portions of the cheese mixture and form them into bite-sized balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up the filling, which helps maintain their shape during frying.
Prepare breading stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and a third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This setup will create a crispy, flavorful coating.
Heat the oil: Heat peanut or canola oil in a deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature for even frying.
Bread the popper bites: Remove the cheese balls from the freezer. Dip each ball first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. This triple coating ensures a crunchy exterior.
Fry the bites: Carefully place several breaded bites into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Drain excess oil: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried jalapeno popper bites and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve or store: Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

For extra spice, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add a pinch of cayenne to the filling.
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and the texture creamy.
Freezing the formed balls helps them hold their shape during frying and prevents melting.
Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked bites.
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or canola oil, for best frying results.
To make preparation easier, you can prepare the filling and bread the bites ahead of time and keep them frozen until ready to fry.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: jalapeno popper bites, fried appetizers, spicy snacks, party food, finger food, cream cheese bites