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Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log

This Cowboy Caviar Jalapeno Popper Cheese Log combines bold Tex-Mex flavors with a crunchy coating, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheese Mixture
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Use a block of cream cheese that’s truly softened to the core.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For a smoky kick, consider swapping half with pepper jack.
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup corn, canned or frozen
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes Can use fresh or canned.
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup jalapeños, diced Fresh or pickled; remove seeds for milder heat.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Alternatively, substitute with za’atar for a Mediterranean twist.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro Can be replaced with parsley for variations.
Coating
  • 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips For best results, crush into uneven shards.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and creamy.
  2. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into a log or cylinder on a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Coating and Serving
  1. Once chilled, remove the cheese log from the plastic wrap and roll it in the crushed tortilla chips until fully coated.
  2. Transfer the cheese log to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  3. Serve with additional tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

Keep the log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 4 days. Store chips separately for maximum crunch. Do not freeze once assembled.