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Spooky Black Food Coloring Quesadillas

These fun Halloween quesadillas feature smoky cheese, spicy peppers, and a striking black color for a spooky, gooey snack. They are pan-fried to crispy perfection, with melted cheese stretching invitingly in every bite, topped with edible decorations for a creepy finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces flour tortillas preferably fresh and soft
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 drops gel black food coloring adjust for desired darkness
  • 1 small jalapeño peppers thinly sliced, optional for spicy kick
  • 1 teaspoon cumin or smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor
  • as needed edible decorations black sesame seeds or tiny edible eyes

Equipment

  • Skillet or griddle
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Small brush (optional)
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Mix the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in a bowl, then add the black food coloring drops and stir until the cheese turns a deep black hue, ensuring an even color distribution.
  2. Lay a tortilla flat on your workspace and spread a thin layer of the black cheese mixture over half of it, leaving the other half empty.
  3. Add a few slices of jalapeño peppers over the cheese, and sprinkle a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for added smoky flavor.
  4. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling, pressing gently to seal the edges together.
  5. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat until it’s hot and begins to emit a faint sizzle when a small piece of tortilla touches it.
  6. Carefully place the folded tortilla onto the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese starts to bubble.
  7. Flip the quesadilla carefully using a spatula, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
  8. Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for about a minute, allowing the cheese to set slightly for cleaner slicing.
  9. Use a sharp knife to cut the quesadilla into spooky shapes, strips, or triangles for extra fun.
  10. Decorate with edible decorations like black sesame seeds or tiny edible eyes to add a creepy, festive touch.
  11. Serve the hot, gooey quesadillas immediately with dips or garnishes for a perfect Halloween treat.

Notes

Adjust the amount of black food coloring to achieve your desired darkness. Be cautious not to over-color, as too much can affect flavor. For milder color, use less or skip the coloring altogether.