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Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe

4.5 from 627 reviews

Delightfully cheesy and mildly spicy, these Jalapeño Cheese Squares combine creamy cheddar and cream cheese with fresh jalapeños for a flavorful appetizer or snack. Baked to golden perfection, they’re quick to make and perfect for gatherings or casual munching.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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 Garnish

  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing 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 together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
  3. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s fully incorporated for a rich cheesy flavor throughout.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is uniform.
  5. Add Jalapeños: Gently fold in the diced jalapeños, distributing them evenly to ensure each square has a consistent mild heat and fresh bite.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula to prepare for baking.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the squares firm up for clean slicing.
  9. Cut into Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the baked mixture into 12 equal squares, ideal for serving.
  10. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle chopped green onions on top of the squares for a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and extra flavor.

Notes

  • For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds before dicing.
  • Feel free to substitute cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier twist.
  • Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth mixing.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
  • These squares can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Keywords: jalapeño cheese squares, cheesy appetizer, baked cheese bites, spicy cheese snack, jalapeño snacks, party appetizers