For those who love a little spice, this cheese ball combines creamy cheese, sweet honey, and spicy jalapeños for a flavor-packed appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Did You Know?
Jalapeños are rich in vitamin C and capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism. Adding a little spice to your appetizer table is a fun way to heat things up and make your dishes more exciting!
Yield
Serves 6–8
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or chopped cilantro for coating
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base
Blend the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and honey in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Cheese Ball
Spoon the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
Place the crushed tortilla chips or chopped cilantro into a shallow dish.
Step 4: Coat the Cheese Ball
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating until it is evenly covered on all sides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggie sticks for dipping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 190, Protein: 7g, Carbohydrates: 4g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 3g, Fat: 16g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 240mg, Sugars: 2g, Glycemic Index: Low
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Adjust the spice level by customizing how you use jalapeños. For less spice, remove the seeds and membranes, or for an extra kick, try using serrano peppers instead.
- Swap Monterey Jack or cheddar with pepper jack for an additional layer of flavor.
- If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar makes an excellent substitute.
- To prepare in advance, make the cheese ball a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it until ready to serve.
- For alternative coatings, try crushed pretzels, sesame seeds, or finely chopped nuts.
- Pair the cheese ball with veggie sticks like celery, carrots, or sliced bell peppers for a lighter, healthier option.
- Divide the mixture into mini cheese balls for individual servings at smaller gatherings.
- Use store-brand cheese and buy jalapeños in bulk to keep the recipe budget-friendly.
- Leftovers can be spread onto toasted bagels or used as a flavorful filling for quesadillas or sandwiches.
- If serving at a party, keep the cheese ball chilled until just before serving to maintain its texture and shape.
Let’s Learn About Jalapeños
Jalapeños are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can elevate your cheese ball. These peppers are packed with vitamin C, providing more per gram than an orange, which helps boost the immune system. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, can aid metabolism, reduce inflammation, and act as a natural pain reliever. Jalapeños typically have a mild to moderate spice level, ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 on the Scoville scale, making them accessible to a wide range of taste preferences. Whether raw, roasted, or pickled, jalapeños add an exciting element to any dish.
When shopping for jalapeños, choose firm, shiny peppers with a vibrant green color and no soft spots. For spicier peppers, look for those with fine white lines or striations on the skin. Adding jalapeños to your cheese ball doesn’t just enhance the flavor—it brings a dose of health and excitement to your appetizer spread!