Cheesy Jalapeño Chili Garlic Balls (Printer View)

Buttermilk biscuit balls with cheddar, jalapeño, and garlic, baked golden for a spicy, cheesy snack or breakfast.

# Components:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Dairy & Fats

07 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
08 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 - 1 cup buttermilk

→ Vegetables & Flavors

10 - 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

→ For Topping

13 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
14 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder until thoroughly combined.
03 - Add cold cubed unsalted butter. Cut into flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
04 - Fold in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, finely diced jalapeños, minced garlic, and chopped fresh chives.
05 - Pour in buttermilk. Gently mix until just combined and a sticky dough forms. Take care not to overmix.
06 - Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, divide dough evenly among prepared muffin cups, forming rounded balls.
07 - Place muffin tin in oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin ball comes out clean.
08 - Remove pan from oven and immediately brush tops with melted butter. Sprinkle chili flakes over each ball if desired. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy, one-bowl prep for quick baking
  • Super versatile: perfect for parties or breakfast
02 -
  • Leaving jalapeño seeds in will increase the spiciness significantly
  • Substitute cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varied flavor
03 -
  • For extra flavor, serve with sour cream or ranch dip
  • Freeze leftover muffin balls and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes