Description
These little flavor-packed bites are creamy, smoky, slightly spicy, and guaranteed to vanish fast at any gathering. No baking required, forgiving to make, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for game day, potlucks, or just a dangerously good snack waiting in your fridge.
Ingredients
Base Mix:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat preferred; Neufchâtel for lighter version)
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
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1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds/ribs removed for mild, left in for extra heat)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp onion powder
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Coating Options:
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½ cup crushed pecans
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Extra crumbled bacon
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Shredded cheddar
(Get creative! You can mix and match.)
Instructions
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Mix the Base:
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In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional green onions.
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Mix with a spatula or clean hands until smooth and fully incorporated. Stand mixer (low speed, 30 sec) works too—don’t overmix.
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Chill:
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Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up mixture for easier rolling.
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Scoop & Roll:
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Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, melon baller, or spoon to portion.
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Roll each portion into 1–1.5-inch balls.
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Lightly dampen hands with water if mixture sticks.
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Coat:
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Spread your coating choice on a plate. Roll each ball until fully coated, pressing gently.
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Final Chill & Serve:
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Serve immediately, or chill an additional 10 minutes for perfect set and easier handling.
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Notes
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Southwestern Fiesta: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, add 2 tbsp cilantro, coat in crushed tortilla chips or pepitas.
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Everything Bagel: Skip bacon, coat in “Everything But The Bagel” seasoning.
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Sweet & Smoky: Use maple-glazed bacon, coat in finely chopped candied pecans.
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Buffalo Chicken: Fold in ½ cup shredded cooked chicken + 2–3 tbsp Buffalo sauce; coat in blue cheese crumbles.
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Keto-Friendly: Roll in crushed pork rinds or everything seasoning.