Description
These Pioneer Woman Jalapeño Cheese Crisps are a spicy, cheesy snack perfect for parties or a savory bite alongside soups and salads. Combining sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese with fresh jalapeños, they are baked to a crispy, golden perfection and deliver a delightful crunch with a kick of heat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
Toppings
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, pepper jack cheese, and optional flour, tossing lightly to coat the cheese evenly which helps the crisps to hold together and become extra crispy.
- Arrange Cheese Mounds: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each mound approximately 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each mound with the back of a spoon to encourage even baking and crisping.
- Add Jalapeños and Season: Top each cheese round with 1 to 2 thin slices of fresh jalapeño, then sprinkle lightly with freshly ground black pepper for added flavor and a gentle spicy kick.
- Bake Crisps: Bake in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes, monitoring closely until the edges turn golden and crisp and the centers are bubbly but not burnt.
- Cool and Set: Remove from the oven and let the crisps cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving to ensure maximum crunch.
Notes
- These crisps make a perfect snack or a crunchy accompaniment to soups and salads.
- Using pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts better for optimal texture.
- Omitting the flour makes this recipe gluten-free.
- Watch closely during baking to prevent burning as cheese crisps can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
