These Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites are a heavenly combination of creamy avocado, savory bacon, and melty cheese. Coated in a crispy golden crust and fried to perfection, they offer a delightful contrast of textures in every bite.
Perfect for parties, game days, or any festive gathering, these bites will be the star of your appetizer table. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce to elevate the flavors even further. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will disappear as quickly as they hit the plate!
Full Recipe:
For the Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Filling
- (2) 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 large avocados, diced small
- 1 lb bacon, crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- ½ cup diced jalapeños (pickled from a jar works well)
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup red onions, diced
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Coating
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup flour
- 1-2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 2+ cups vegetable oil
Directions:
- Fry bacon until crispy. Once cooled, crumble and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese on medium speed until creamy (2-3 minutes).
- Stir in all remaining ingredients except avocados. Gently fold in avocados. Cover and chill for 1 hour.
- Prepare coating: Place flour in one bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg in another, and fill a third with panko breadcrumbs.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture, shape into balls, and coat each ball in flour, then the buttermilk mixture, and finally the breadcrumbs.
- Place balls on a baking sheet and flash freeze for 1 hour to firm up.
- Heat oil in a cast iron pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in small batches, turning frequently, for 2 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: Approximately 36 bites
Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites: A Perfect Appetizer for Every Occasion
When it comes to appetizers, nothing beats the combination of creamy, crispy, and savory. Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites tick all the boxes for a show-stopping snack that will wow your guests. These delightful bites bring together the richness of cream cheese, the buttery goodness of avocado, the smoky crunch of bacon, and a perfectly crispy exterior that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Perfect for game days, parties, or family gatherings, these bites are as versatile as they are delicious.
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
One of the highlights of these bites is their rich flavor profile. The cream cheese provides a smooth, tangy base that complements the natural creaminess of avocado. Bacon, crisped to perfection, adds a smoky and savory punch, while the hint of jalapeño brings a gentle heat that keeps your taste buds intrigued. To elevate the taste, a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses is added, creating a melty, gooey center that oozes with every bite. Fresh cilantro, green onions, and a touch of red onion add a burst of freshness and balance the rich flavors beautifully.
Why These Bites Are a Crowd Favorite
The appeal of Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites lies in their versatility and universal appeal. They cater to a wide range of palates, combining familiar ingredients in an exciting way. Whether served as a starter at a formal dinner or as a quick snack for casual get-togethers, these bites fit seamlessly into any menu.
Their crispy coating and golden brown finish make them visually irresistible, while the explosion of textures—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—adds to the sensory delight. The bites are substantial enough to satisfy hunger but small enough to leave your guests reaching for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These bites are particularly popular for game day spreads, where finger foods reign supreme. Imagine a tray of these warm, crispy delights served alongside a variety of dipping sauces—ranch, spicy mayo, or a tangy cilantro-lime sauce. They’re also a hit at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even as an appetizer at a casual dinner party. For those who enjoy experimenting, these bites offer endless customization possibilities, allowing you to tweak the recipe to fit specific themes or preferences.
Tips for Success
While the recipe is straightforward, a few tips can help ensure that your Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites come out perfectly every time:
- Chill the Filling: Chilling the mixture before forming the bites helps the ingredients bind together, making the process of rolling and frying much easier.
- Flash Freeze Before Frying: Freezing the shaped bites for an hour not only helps them hold their shape during frying but also ensures a perfectly crisp exterior.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Frying at the right temperature—around 350°F (175°C)—is crucial for achieving a golden brown crust without overcooking or leaving the interior soggy.
- Serve Fresh: While these bites can be reheated, they are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Healthier Alternatives
For those looking to make a healthier version of this indulgent snack, consider baking or air frying instead of deep frying. The bites may lose some of their characteristic crunch, but they will still deliver on flavor. Substituting almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs can also make the recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
The Importance of Texture
The textural contrast is one of the most satisfying elements of these bites. The crispy coating, achieved through a panko breadcrumb crust, gives way to a soft and creamy interior. The diced avocado adds an additional layer of texture, while the bacon brings a delightful crunch and chewiness. This combination ensures that every bite is a delightful surprise, keeping your guests coming back for more.
Pairing and Presentation Ideas
To create a memorable appetizer platter, consider pairing these bites with other complementary dishes. A colorful platter of fresh veggies and dipping sauces will provide a balance of flavors and textures. Serving them alongside other fried treats, such as mozzarella sticks or jalapeño poppers, makes for a decadent spread that’s sure to impress.
When it comes to presentation, simplicity is key. Arrange the bites on a wooden board or a decorative plate, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. For dipping sauces, small ramekins or bowls can be placed around the platter to encourage interaction and sharing.
Customizing the Recipe
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You can tailor the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for customization:
- Add a Protein Boost: Incorporate shredded chicken or crumbled sausage into the mixture for an extra protein punch.
- Spice It Up: Increase the amount of jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce for those who love a fiery kick.
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap out the bacon for a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether. The cream cheese and avocado combo is rich enough to stand on its own.
- Experiment with Coatings: Try using crushed tortilla chips or seasoned breadcrumbs for a unique twist on the classic panko crust.
Why Avocado and Bacon Are a Perfect Match
Avocado and bacon are a culinary match made in heaven. The creamy, mild flavor of avocado pairs beautifully with the bold, smoky notes of bacon, creating a balanced and indulgent bite. This duo works especially well in this recipe, where the creaminess of the avocado complements the crispy coating and the richness of the bacon enhances the overall flavor profile.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Appetizer
Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites are a true crowd-pleaser, combining rich flavors and delightful textures into a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for game day, or simply looking for a fun recipe to try, these bites are guaranteed to impress. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a favorite among home cooks, while their irresistible taste ensures they’ll be the first to disappear from the appetizer table.
For a snack that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire, give Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites a try. Your friends and family will thank you, and you’ll have a go-to dish that never fails to delight.