Crispy Cream Cheese Jalapeno Bites
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with our Crispy Cream Cheese Jalapeno Bites. These delightful roll-ups combine creamy, spiced cream cheese with the kick of jalapenos, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and then deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they are easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the freezer until you're ready to indulge. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these bites are sure to elevate your snacking experience!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
sharp cheddar cheese
1.5 cups (shredded)
onion powder
0.75 teaspoon
garlic powder
0.75 teaspoon
cumin
0.75 teaspoon
coriander
0.75 teaspoon
salt
0.25 teaspoon
chili powder
0.75 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
2 dashes
canned jalapeno slices
40 pieces (minced)
burrito-size flour tortillas
4
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, coriander, salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and minced jalapeno slices until well combined.
2
Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, ensuring an even layer.
3
Starting from one end, roll each tortilla tightly to create a log shape. Make sure to roll as tightly as possible to prevent the filling from spilling out during frying.
4
Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least one hour to help them firm up.
5
Once chilled, remove the tortillas from the refrigerator and slice each one diagonally into 2-inch pieces. Discard the ends and any pieces that are not tightly wrapped (feel free to snack on those!).
6
Return the sliced roll-ups to the refrigerator for an additional hour to ensure they hold their shape during frying.
7
In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the roll-ups in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until they float and are lightly browned, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
8
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried jalapeno bites and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Cream Cheese Jalapeno Bites?
They are a delightful appetizer made by rolling a spiced cream cheese and jalapeno mixture in flour tortillas and deep-frying them until golden.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 8 servings.
What kind of cheese is used in the filling?
The recipe uses a combination of 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Can I use fresh jalapenos for this recipe?
Yes, although the recipe calls for 40 pieces of canned jalapeno slices, you can substitute with fresh minced jalapenos if preferred.
How should the canned jalapeno slices be prepared?
The canned jalapeno slices should be minced before being blended with the cheeses and spices.
What spices are needed for the cream cheese mixture?
The mixture requires onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, coriander, salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
How many tortillas are used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 4 burrito-size flour tortillas.
What size of tortillas is recommended?
Burrito-size flour tortillas are best for creating the rolls.
Does the cream cheese need to be softened?
Yes, the cream cheese should be softened to ensure all ingredients blend together smoothly.
How long should the rolls be refrigerated before slicing?
The rolled tortillas should be refrigerated for at least one hour to help them firm up.
Why is there a second chilling step after slicing?
Returning the sliced pieces to the refrigerator for an additional hour ensures they hold their shape during the frying process.
How should I slice the tortilla rolls?
Each tortilla roll should be sliced diagonally into 2-inch pieces.
What temperature should the oil be for frying?
The oil should be heated to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot.
How long do the bites take to fry?
They usually take about 1 to 2 minutes to fry until they float and turn lightly brown.
How do I know when the jalapeno bites are ready to be removed from the oil?
They are ready when they float to the surface and have reached a light golden-brown color.
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, they are easy to prepare in advance and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to fry them.
Can these jalapeno bites be frozen?
Yes, the recipe description mentions that they can be stored in the freezer.
What is the best way to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying?
Make sure to roll the tortillas as tightly as possible and ensure they are properly chilled before frying.
Are these bites spicy?
Yes, they contain minced jalapenos, chili powder, and two dashes of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
How should I drain the excess oil after frying?
Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and place them on paper towels to drain.
How should the bites be served?
They should be served hot for the best texture and flavor.
Can I use a different type of shredded cheese?
While sharp cheddar is recommended, you can experiment with other shredded cheeses of your choice.
Are these bites baked or deep-fried?
These bites are deep-fried to achieve their signature crispy exterior.
How many jalapeno pieces are used in the recipe?
The recipe calls specifically for 40 pieces of canned jalapeno slices.
What is the first step in preparing the filling?
The first step is blending the softened cream cheese with the cheddar, spices, and minced jalapenos in a mixing bowl.
What provides the heat in the seasoning blend?
The heat comes from a combination of chili powder, minced jalapenos, and cayenne pepper.
Should I use the ends of the tortilla rolls?
The instructions recommend discarding the ends and any pieces that are not tightly wrapped.
What is the suggested width for each bite?
Each slice should be approximately 2 inches wide.
What equipment do I need for the frying process?
You will need a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to heat the oil.
How do I roll the tortillas to ensure they stay closed?
Start from one end and roll tightly to create a log shape, then wrap them in plastic wrap to firm up in the fridge.