Avocado Bacon Bites (Printable Version)

Crispy panko-coated bites filled with avocado, bacon and cheese—a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering.

# Ingredients:

→ Base Mixture

01 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 - 3 large avocados, cut into small cubes
03 - 1 pound bacon, cooked until crisp
04 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
05 - 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

→ Seasonings and Aromatics

06 - 1/2 cup pickled jalapenos, chopped
07 - 1/2 cup sliced green onions
08 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
09 - 1/4 cup diced red onion
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1 teaspoon lime juice

→ Coating

14 - 1 cup buttermilk
15 - 1 large egg
16 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
17 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
18 - Vegetable oil for frying

# Steps:

01 - Cook bacon in a large pan until crispy. Place on paper towels and crumble when cool.
02 - Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in cheeses, crumbled bacon, onions, jalapenos, cilantro and seasonings. Fold in diced avocados last.
03 - Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.
04 - Put flour in one bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg in second bowl, and breadcrumbs in third bowl.
05 - Scoop tablespoons of filling and roll into balls. Coat each in flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumbs.
06 - Place coated balls on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour to set shape.
07 - Heat oil to 350°F. Fry balls in batches for 2 minutes until golden brown, turning often.
08 - Remove with slotted spoon to paper towels. Serve while warm.

# Notes:

01 - Can be prepared ahead and frozen for up to one month before frying.
02 - Perfect for game day parties and gatherings.
03 - Serve with ranch dressing or spicy aioli for dipping.

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