Save Savory, cheesy muffin balls with a spicy kick and a hint of ranch flavor—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party treat.
I first made these Spicy Ranch Cheddar Muffin Balls for a game night, and they disappeared within minutes. The combination of melted cheese, punchy ranch spices, and jalapeño heat hits all the right notes for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups (180 g)
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ tsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 ½ cups (150 g)
- Parmesan cheese, grated: ¼ cup (25 g)
- Large eggs: 2
- Buttermilk: ⅔ cup (160 ml)
- Unsalted butter, melted: ¼ cup (60 ml)
- Finely chopped pickled jalapeños: 2 tbsp
- Chopped fresh chives (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare oven and baking sheet:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne.
- Add cheeses:
- Add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, tossing to coat in the flour mixture.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
- Fold in add-ins:
- Fold in chopped jalapeños and chives (if using). Do not overmix.
- Portion batter:
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion dough into 1½-inch balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet or mini muffin tins.
- Bake:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and serve:
- Cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My kids love helping shape the dough into muffin balls, and serving them warm from the oven makes snack time feel extra special.
Make It Your Own
Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack, add extra jalapeños for more heat, or mix in fresh herbs for a flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these muffin balls with ranch dip, spicy aioli, or your favorite salsa for dipping at parties or family gatherings.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes for fresh, cheesy goodness.
Save Whip up a batch for your next get-together—these spicy, cheesy bites always win rave reviews!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, add more cayenne or jalapeños for extra heat or reduce them for a milder flavor.
- → Is it possible to use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Pepper jack or your favorite shredded cheese substitutes well and offers a new taste profile.
- → What dipping sauces pair best?
Ranch dip, spicy aioli, or even salsa complement the muffin balls' flavors nicely.
- → Can these be made ahead and frozen?
Yes, bake and freeze the balls in a sealed container. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- → Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
They are vegetarian as presented. For gluten-free, substitute your preferred blend for all-purpose flour.