Description
This Cowboy Caviar Jalapeño Popper Cheese Log is a flavorful and creamy appetizer combining cream cheese, cheddar, and a zesty mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, jalapeños, and spices. Rolled in crunchy crushed tortilla chips and garnished with fresh cilantro, it’s perfect for parties and snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cowboy Caviar Mix
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Finishing
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (for coating)
Instructions
- Mix cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and creamy, ensuring a smooth base for the log.
- Add cowboy caviar ingredients: Incorporate the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper into the cheese mixture. Stir gently to distribute all ingredients evenly without mashing the vegetables too much.
- Form the cheese log: Using your hands, shape the combined mixture into a log or cylinder on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly to maintain shape and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing it to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Coat the log: After chilling, unwrap the cheese log and roll it thoroughly in the crushed tortilla chips until fully coated, adding a crunchy texture to the outside.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the coated cheese log to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve it alongside additional tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use fresh jalapeños with seeds included.
- The cheese log can be made up to a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Substitute crushed pita chips or nuts for a different crunchy coating.
- Serve as an appetizer, party dip, or snack with chips or fresh veggies.
