Jalapeño Cheese Squares Recipe
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.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s fully incorporated for a rich cheesy flavor throughout.
- 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.
- Add Jalapeños: Gently fold in the diced jalapeños, distributing them evenly to ensure each square has a consistent mild heat and fresh bite.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cut into Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the baked mixture into 12 equal squares, ideal for serving.
- 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