Ree Drummond is known as The Pioneer Woman . She started cooking on TV and now lots of people follow her for simple recipes . Her style is friendly and down to earth , almost like she’s your neighbor just sharing dinner ideas . One of her best snacks is the Jalapeño Chеese Crisрs , a crunchy treat that mixes melted cheese with spicy pepper bits .
In this post we’re gonna dig into why these crisps are so popular , check out the stuff you need , and walk step by step through making them . Even if you’ve never baked before , you’ll find this recipe easy , fun , and sure to please everyone at a party . Let’s roll up our sleeves and get chomping on these addictively tasty bites .

What Are Jalapeño Cheese Crisps ?
Jalapeño Cheese Crisps are tiny, crunchy snacks made mostly from shredded cheese and bits of fresh jalapeño . You bake them till they’re golden and firm . The cheese melts into little puddles that crisp up around the edges ; then you pop them off the tray and snack away . They’re perfect as a quick bite , party appetizer , or when you just need something salty and spicy .
These cheese crisps trace back to simple cheese-and-cracker ideas , but cooks started baking cheese alone to skip the carbs . When folks added jalapeños , the bites got a zesty twist that blew up on social media and at food fairs . Now everyone wants to try them at home or bring them to a cookout .
Right now jalapeño crisps are everywhere — home kitchens , food blogs , and even craft fairs . They’re hot because they’re so easy to make yet feel fancy , and they hit the spot for people who love bold flavors without too much fuss .
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Jalapeño Cheese Crisps
Here’s what you’ll grab to whip up a batch of these delicious bites :
- 2 cups shredded cheddar chеese : Sharp for more punch or mild if you want it softer.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan : Gives extra crunch and umami.
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños : Dice fine ; fewer seeds means less heat.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder : Optional , but adds more flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder : Optional ; it balances the spice.
- Salt and pepper : Just a pinch to bring out the taste.
If you need gluten-free , check your cheese labels . For vegan , try plant-based chеese and tweak spices to taste .

Detailed Recipe Section
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese : Sharp or mild , your choice.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese : For extra flavor and crunch.
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños : Finely diced to suit your spice level.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder : Optional , for more depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder : Optional , pairs well with cheese.
- Salt to taste : Enhances everything .
- Black pepper : Optional , for a little kick .
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- In a big bowl , mix cheddar , Parmesan , jalapeños , garlic and onion powders , salt , and pepper .
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper .
- Drop spoonfuls of the mix onto the sheet , about 2 inches apart so they don’t stick .
- Press each blob flat with the back of a spoon to make little discs .
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden and firm .
- Let cool a few minutes on the tray so they crisp up fully .
- Peel off and serve right away or store in an airtight container .
Tips for Perfect Cheese Crisps
Make sure the mix is evenly spread , not piled too high . Watch closely near the end ; ovens can run hot and burn the edges fast . To keep them crunchy later , seal them in a tight container . If they lose crispness , pop them back in the oven for a couple minutes . Try dipping in salsa , guacamole , or even drizzling a bit of hot sauce .
Nutritional Information
One serving of these crisps is about 150 calories , with roughly 10g fat , 9g protein , and 5g carbs . The cheddar and Parmesan pack in calcium , while jalapeños add vitamin C . They’re a tasty snack that feels indulgent but still fits into most diets .
The Pioneer Woman’s Touch
Ree Drummond built her brand on cooking that feels like home . Her recipes are low-stress , family-friendly , and always have a cozy vibe . These cheese crisps show how simple ingredients can make people smile at the table . Ree loves sharing food with friends and family ; these crisps bring that same warm feeling in every bite .
Serving Suggestions
Serve them with salsa for a classic combo , guacamole for creaminess , or a simple cheese dip if you want more cheese ! A crisp white wine or light beer pairs great , and a Margarita amps up the fun . Mix and match your favorite dippers to find the best match .
Conclusion
These Jalapeño Cheese Crisps are easy , crunchy , and full of flavor — perfect for any get-together . They prove that a few simple ingredients can make a snack that feels special . Try the recipe , then tweak it with your own ideas to make it totally yours .
FAQs Section
Can I use different types of cheese in the recipe ?
Sure ! Try Monterey Jack for milder flavor , or Pepper Jack to up the heat . Each cheese gives a slightly different taste and texture .
How spicy are these Jalapeño Cheese Crisps ?
The kick depends on how many jalapeños you use and if you keep the seeds . For less heat , remove seeds and use fewer peppers . Always taste the mix before baking to be sure .
How to store leftover cheese crisps ?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to a week . To freshen their crunch , warm them in the oven for a few minutes .
Can I make these cheese crisps in advance ?
Yep . You can shape the discs ahead of time and stash them in the fridge for a few hours before baking . Then bake right before serving so they’re super crispy .
What should I do if I don't have jalapeños ?
Swap in serrano or poblano peppers for a different taste , or sprinkle in red pepper flakes . You can also play with herbs and spices to make new flavors .
Call to Action
Tell us how yours turned out ! Drop a comment with your tweaks and share this recipe on social media so friends can try it too .

Pioneer Woman Jalapeño Cheese Crisps
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese about 8 ounces
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese about 4 ounces
- 1-2 pieces jalapeños, finely chopped adjust based on desired spice level
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- to taste optional fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Using a spoon, scoop out small mounds (about 2 tablespoons each) of the cheese mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each mound slightly with the back of the spoon, ensuring they are evenly spread for consistent cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, as they will become crispier as they cool.
- If desired, sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.




