Description
Cream Cheese Poppers are crispy, golden-fried bites filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and green onions. This delicious appetizer offers a perfect combination of creamy and crunchy texture, seasoned with garlic powder and a hint of black pepper. Ideal for parties or as a savory snack, these poppers are battered and deep-fried to perfection for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Batter
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix cheese filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, finely chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Chill mixture: Place the cheese mixture in the refrigerator and chill for 15 to 20 minutes to help it firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Shape balls: Scoop the chilled mixture and form into 1 to 1.5 inch balls. Place the balls on a tray and freeze for 10 to 15 minutes to solidify for frying.
- Prepare batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or buttermilk, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until the batter is smooth. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes for better texture.
- Coat poppers: Dip each chilled cheese ball into the batter, ensuring it is completely coated for a crispy outer shell.
- Heat oil and fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in small batches for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and cool: Remove fried poppers with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the cream cheese poppers hot, garnished with extra chopped green onions or your favorite dipping sauce for an enjoyable appetizer.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese balls before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents the filling from melting too quickly.
- Use fresh vegetable oil and maintain the temperature at 350°F to ensure even and crispy frying without absorbing excess oil.
- Variations can include adding finely diced jalapeños or cooked bacon to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- These poppers are best served immediately but can be kept warm in a low oven for a short time.
