Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam! The combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and a touch of sweetness from the jam creates a mouthwatering appetizer that is always a hit. Whether I'm hosting a party or just craving a snack, these poppers never disappoint. I enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese and spices to customize the flavor, making each batch a unique delight. Trust me, once you try these, you'll know exactly why they’re a favorite in my kitchen!
When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam, I was surprised at how many flavors could come from just a few ingredients. The spiciness of the jalapeno paired perfectly with the sweetness of the homemade jam, creating an irresistible balance. I used cream cheese for a rich filling, and honestly, it made every bite completely melt in my mouth!
One crucial tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in brine before stuffing them. This enhances their flavor and cuts down on the heat just enough for those who might be sensitive to spice. After all, they should be deliciously addictive, not overwhelmingly hot!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spicy jalapenos stuffed with creamy cheese
- A hint of sweetness from homemade jalapeno jam
- Perfect for parties or game-day snacks
Choosing the Right Jalapenos
When selecting jalapenos for this recipe, look for firm, glossy peppers that are bright green. Avoid any that have soft spots or wrinkles, as they indicate a lack of freshness. The level of heat in jalapenos can vary, so if you're sensitive to spice, taste a small piece before using them. For milder poppers, opt for smaller jalapenos, as they tend to be less spicy than larger ones. You can also consider removing more seeds and membranes for an even milder flavor.
If you'd like to try a variation using a different pepper, consider using poblano peppers. They have a rich flavor and milder heat compared to jalapenos. Just keep in mind that they are larger, so you may need to adjust the amount of filling accordingly, which could mean doubling the cheese mixture recipe. This creates a different but equally delectable experience!
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Bacon
To ensure your bacon is perfectly crispy, start by cutting it into halves. Using thin bacon can help achieve that crunchy texture more easily, as it cooks down quickly. If you find that your bacon isn't crisping up as desired, try placing the baking sheet in the upper third of the oven towards the end of cooking. This helps the heat circulate better around the bacon, giving it that nice golden brown finish.
Additionally, consider using a wire rack placed on the baking sheet to elevate the poppers. This method allows the fat to drip away as they cook, resulting in a crisper bacon exterior and preventing sogginess. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; once they are golden with a nice sizzle, it’s time to bring them out!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start:
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
Jalapeno Jam
- 1 cup diced jalapenos (with seeds removed for milder flavor)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 pectin packet
Make sure to use fresh jalapenos for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Jalapeno Poppers:
Prepare the Jalapenos
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat, if desired.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Stuff the Jalapenos
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a half slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
Bake the Poppers
Arrange the wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
Make the Jalapeno Jam
While the poppers are baking, combine diced jalapenos, sugar, vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in pectin and let cool.
Serve
Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm alongside the jalapeno jam for dipping!
Enjoy your poppers with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding some shredded mozzarella to the cream cheese filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
Customizing the Cheese Filling
The cheese filling for these poppers is highly customizable. While cream cheese and cheddar provide a creamy and flavorful base, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Mixing in fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile, adding freshness that complements the heat of the jalapenos.
Make sure the cream cheese is very soft when mixing; if it's too cold, it will be challenging to blend with the shredded cheese, leading to a chunky filling. Warm it slightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if needed. This ensures a smooth mixture that can easily fill each jalapeno half, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully during baking.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time. Prepare the poppers and place them in the fridge before baking; they will last for up to 24 hours this way. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before popping them into the oven, allowing them to cook evenly. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, aim for an oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) to help retain the crispy bacon texture.
For serving, these poppers are delicious alongside the homemade jalapeno jam, which adds a sweet contrast to the savory filled peppers. Consider pairing them with a fresh salsa or a zesty guacamole as well; the freshness of these sides contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the poppers. These creations can be a standout appetizer for game day or a fun addition to a potluck!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the jalapeno poppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the poppers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
→ What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon or use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.
→ How spicy are these poppers?
The spice level can be adjusted by removing more seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. The cream cheese also helps to balance the heat.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results!
Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam! The combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and a touch of sweetness from the jam creates a mouthwatering appetizer that is always a hit. Whether I'm hosting a party or just craving a snack, these poppers never disappoint. I enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese and spices to customize the flavor, making each batch a unique delight. Trust me, once you try these, you'll know exactly why they’re a favorite in my kitchen!
Created by: Hallie Foster
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 large jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
Jalapeno Jam
- 1 cup diced jalapenos (with seeds removed for milder flavor)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 pectin packet
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat, if desired.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a half slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
Arrange the wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
While the poppers are baking, combine diced jalapenos, sugar, vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in pectin and let cool.
Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm alongside the jalapeno jam for dipping!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding some shredded mozzarella to the cream cheese filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 10g