Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball (Print-Friendly Format)

Bacon, jalapeno, cheddar, and onions blend in a creamy cheese ball that's always a party favorite.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Base Mixture

01 - 450 g cream cheese, slightly softened
02 - 2 tablespoons sour cream
03 - 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Cheese and Mix-ins

06 - 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve 50 g for coating)
07 - 10 slices smoked bacon, cooked crispy and chopped (reserve half for coating)
08 - 2 jalapenos, seeded, deveined, and finely minced (reserve half for coating)
09 - 50 g green onions, chopped (reserve half for coating)

# How to Make It:

01 - Using a stand or hand mixer on medium speed, blend cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
02 - Reduce mixer speed to low and mix in 150 g of shredded cheddar, half the chopped bacon, half the minced jalapeno, and half the chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
03 - Combine reserved cheddar cheese, bacon, jalapeno, and green onions in a small airtight bag and refrigerate for later use.
04 - Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and gather the plastic wrap to shape a tight ball. Chill overnight in the refrigerator.
05 - Remove cheese ball from the refrigerator 20 minutes before serving. Spread reserved toppings on a plate, unwrap the ball, and gently roll to coat evenly. Serve immediately.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Allow cream cheese to soften slightly for smooth blending, but avoid over-softening to maintain structure.
02 - For best flavor and texture, grate cheddar cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties.
03 - Wear gloves when handling jalapenos and ensure all seeds and veins are removed for a milder taste.
04 - Prepare a day ahead to give the cheese ball ample time to firm up in the refrigerator.
05 - If difficult to shape, refrigerate the mixture several hours longer before final forming.
06 - Rolling in toppings just before serving prevents them from becoming soggy.

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