Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry

Name: Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 6 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 package (1 lb) puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love whipping up Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry for gatherings with friends and family. The contrast of the fiery jalapenos with the creamy cheese, all encased in flaky pastry, creates a flavor explosion that never fails to impress. They've become a favorite at my parties, and I’m thrilled to share how easy they are to make. You can quickly prep them before guests arrive, and they bake up perfectly golden and delicious. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to make these again and again!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:43:18.155Z

Making Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry has become a cherished tradition in my home. The fiery jalapenos are balanced beautifully by creamy cheese, while the pastry envelops everything in a delightful crunch. One trick I've learned is to chill the pastries before baking, which ensures they puff up perfectly and develop that gorgeous golden color. I've experimented with different cheeses and spices, but the classic cream cheese still reigns supreme in flavor.

What I love most about this recipe is the flexibility it offers. You can easily customize the heat level by choosing mild or spicy jalapenos or even adding your favorite herbs and spices. I once added a sprinkle of smoked paprika and was blown away by the flavor! Trust me, these poppers are a surefire hit whether it’s game day or a festive gathering.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful crunch that enchants at every bite
Customizable heat levels to suit any palate
Perfect for parties, game nights, or casual snacking

      

Mastering the Pastry Technique

Working with puff pastry can be a game-changer for your Jalapeno Poppers, bringing a flaky and buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the spicy filling. When rolling out the pastry, aim for about 1/8 inch thickness to ensure adequate coverage and an appealing rise. Make sure your workspace is lightly floured to prevent sticking, and remember that keeping the pastry cold will yield better results. If it gets too warm, it may not puff up as beautifully while baking.

To achieve a golden crust, be generous with your egg wash. As the poppers bake, the egg will create a shiny, professional-looking finish. Make sure to brush the entire surface of the pastry, avoiding any pooling at the edges which can lead to soggy spots. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or some freshly cracked black pepper on top will enhance the flavor significantly.

Customizing Your Filling

The cheese filling can be adjusted based on your preference—try adding some crumbled bacon or diced green onions for extra flavor. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt; this will maintain a creamy texture while lowering the calorie content. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as Greek yogurt can be less salty than cream cheese.

When it comes to heat, not all jalapenos are created equal. To gauge the spice level, sample a tiny piece of the raw pepper before filling. If you find them too hot, consider using a mix of jalapenos and milder peppers like poblanos or bell peppers to keep the overall heat manageable while still enjoying the popper experience.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

6 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 package (1 lb) puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

These ingredients make for a flavorful and satisfying snack!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, remove the seeds and membranes, and set aside.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half generously.

Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then cut it into squares large enough to wrap around the jalapenos.

Wrap and Bake

Wrap each filled jalapeno with a square of puff pastry and seal the edges with a fork. Brush the tops with beaten egg. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Poppers

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or add herbs to the filling for an extra flavor twist!

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry make a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Serve them with a cooling dip, like a ranch or sour cream blend, to balance the heat. Alternatively, a zesty cilantro-lime crema can elevate the flavor profile and add an extra fresh twist. Arrange them on a beautiful platter with a side of sliced fresh vegetables for a colorful presentation that will impress your guests.

For a fun game-day spread, consider pairing these poppers with other finger foods such as buffalo chicken wings or loaded nachos. This will create a cohesive theme for your menu, and your friends will appreciate the variety on offer. Remember to serve them warm for the best taste and texture.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), store the poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll keep for about 2-3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method preserves the pastry's crispiness and the filling's creamy texture, ensuring they taste freshly made.

For longer storage, you can freeze these poppers before baking them. Simply prepare them up to the wrapping stage, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. To bake from frozen, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, ensuring you check for that perfectly golden-brown pastry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

These are delicious served with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute the cheese with a vegan cream cheese if you want a dairy-free version.