Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

Introduction

Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a spicy, cheesy snack perfect for any gathering or a tasty treat at home. These flavorful bites combine creamy cheese with fresh jalapeños for a delightful kick in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fresh jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 4 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and eggs, whisking until smooth.
3. Step 3: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
4. Step 4: Add the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until combined.
5. Step 5: Gently fold in the diced jalapeños to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Step 6: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
9. Step 9: Use a sharp knife to cut into squares for easy serving.
10. Step 10: If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

• Remove jalapeño seeds for less heat, or leave some seeds for added spiciness.
• Substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist.
• Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Serve warm with sour cream or salsa for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover Jalapeño Cheese Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave briefly for a quicker option.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated for a few hours before baking. This can help save time on the day you want to serve them.

Can I freeze Jalapeño Cheese Squares?

Yes, these squares freeze well. Wrap individual squares tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 59 reviews

Deliciously spicy and cheesy Jalapeño Cheese Squares are a perfect snack or appetizer. These savory squares combine shredded cheddar cheese, fresh jalapeños, and cream cheese in a soft, baked mixture seasoned with garlic and onion powder for a flavorful bite. Easy to prepare and bake, they are ideal for parties or casual gatherings.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 squares 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Mixture

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 4 large eggs

Dry Ingredients

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Other Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and eggs. Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well to incorporate it evenly through the mixture.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined forming a uniform batter.
5. Add Jalapeños: Gently fold in the diced jalapeños, ensuring even distribution without overmixing to preserve texture.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula for uniform baking.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is set.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the baked mixture to cool for about 10 minutes to firm up for easier cutting.
9. Cut into Squares: Use a sharp knife to slice the cooled mixture into squares, perfect for serving as finger food.
10. Garnish: Optionally sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for added color and flavor before serving.

Notes

• For milder flavor, remove seeds and membranes from jalapeños before dicing.
• Use sharper cheddar cheese for a more intense cheesy flavor.
• Ensure cream cheese is softened to help blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Allow the squares to cool completely to avoid crumbling when cutting.
• These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: Jalapeño Cheese Squares, baked cheese appetizer, spicy cheese squares, party snack, jalapeño appetizer