Arby's Jalapeno Bites feature spicy jalapeno peppers stuffed with creamy cheese, then battered and fried to a golden, crispy perfection, delivering a bold and crunchy snack bursting with flavorful heat.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Tongs
- Cooling rack
- Baking sheet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon (for stuffing)
- Measuring cups
- Mixing whisk
Ingredients
- 8-10 large jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Large jalapeno peppers with consistent size ensure even frying and proper stuffing with the creamy cheese blend. Using full-fat cream cheese creates a rich and smooth filling, perfectly balanced with shredded cheddar for added flavor and texture. Seasoning the flour and breadcrumb coatings with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper enhances the overall taste profile. Maintain vegetable oil temperature between 350-375degF for optimal crispiness without overcooking the filling. Your Arby's Jalapeno Bites from the copycat menu deliver that signature bold heat combined with a crunchy, cheesy bite reminiscent of the original snack.
Instructions
- Wash and dry jalapeno peppers.
- Slice jalapenos in half lengthwise; remove seeds and membranes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture using a spoon.
- Press jalapeno halves back together if possible.
- Prepare three separate bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one for seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each stuffed jalapeno in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip floured jalapeno in egg mixture.
- Coat jalapeno with breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
- Place breaded jalapenos on a baking sheet.
- Preheat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry jalapeno bites in batches, 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove with slotted spoon; drain on cooling rack over baking sheet.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Substitution
Arby's Jalapeno Bites from the copycat menu deliver a spicy, cheesy bite with a crunchy fried coating. You can substitute cream cheese with a blend of ricotta and shredded mozzarella for a lighter texture. If fresh jalapeno peppers are unavailable, pickled jalapenos can offer a tangier alternative but may affect crispiness. To lower oil absorption during frying, ensure the oil temperature remains consistently between 350degF and 375degF. Using baked jalapeno bites instead of fried maintains flavor while reducing calories and kitchen cleanup.
Tips
When removing seeds and membranes from your jalapenos, use gloves to prevent skin irritation and avoid touching your face. Ensure the oil temperature is steady at 350degF (175degC) to achieve the perfect crispy texture without sogginess or burning. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto each bite for an even coating that holds during frying. Your cooling rack setup is essential to drain excess oil, keeping the bites crunchy rather than greasy.
Nutritions
Arby's Jalapeno Bites provide a rich source of calcium from the cream and cheddar cheese, which also contribute protein and fat. The jalapeno peppers add a small amount of vitamin C and capsaicin, known for metabolism-boosting properties. Each bite is fried in vegetable oil, increasing calories and fat content, making them a flavorful but indulgent snack. Your portion size will directly influence calorie intake, so enjoy these spicy bites in moderation.
Storage
Store your leftover Arby's Jalapeno Bites in an airtight container to maintain their crispy texture and spicy flavor. Keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days, and reheat in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore their golden crispness. Avoid storing them at room temperature to prevent sogginess and loss of freshness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the cream cheese with a blend of goat cheese and mascarpone for a tangier and richer filling. To add extra crunch, incorporate crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs into the coating mix instead of traditional breadcrumbs. For a baked alternative, place the stuffed and breaded jalapenos on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400degF (200degC) for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden. Consider adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mix to intensify the smoky heat in your jalapeno bites.
Allergies
Arby's Jalapeno Bites contain dairy from the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk proteins. The batter includes wheat flour and breadcrumbs, both containing gluten, so those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should avoid this snack. Your risk of allergy can also include sensitivity to jalapeno peppers, garlic powder, or onion powder, which might trigger symptoms in some people.
Why this recipe?
Arby's Jalapeno Bites are loved for their perfect balance of spicy jalapeno peppers stuffed with creamy cheese and coated in a crispy, golden batter. Each bite delivers a flavorful combination of heat and savory richness that appeals to snack lovers seeking bold taste experiences. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the spice level and freshness, offering a satisfying homemade alternative that matches Arby's quality. Your kitchen-crafted Jalapeno Bites can recreate the addictive texture and flavor, making them worth the effort.