Jalapeño Cream Cheese Poppers

 

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon bacon bits
• 12 ounces jalapeño peppers, tops cut off and seeded
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dry bread crumbs
• 2 quarts oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, and bacon bits until well combined.

2. Fill each jalapeño pepper with the cream cheese mixture. Set aside.

3. Prepare three separate bowls: one with milk, one with flour, and one with dry bread crumbs.

4. Dip each stuffed jalapeño first into the milk, then into the flour, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

5. Dip the floured jalapeños back into the milk, then coat them completely with bread crumbs. Repeat the dipping process if needed to ensure all surfaces of the jalapeño poppers are covered evenly.

6. Place the coated jalapeños on a tray and let them dry for about 10 minutes.

7. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 365°F (180°C).

8. Carefully place a few jalapeño poppers into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

9. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried jalapeño poppers from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

10. Allow the jalapeño poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.

This recipe yields spicy and cheesy jalapeño poppers that are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Adjust the frying time as needed to achieve your desired level of crispiness.