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 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 package puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry for gatherings because they always impress my guests. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese wrapped in flaky pastry never fails to excite. I find that the pastry adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the heat of the jalapenos. These poppers are easy to prepare and offer a fun twist to traditional appetizers, making them the star of any party. Trust me, once you make these, they'll quickly become a regular at your get-togethers!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:25:10.326Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Pastry, I wanted to create an appetizer that was a bit different yet familiar for my friends. As I experimented, I discovered that the key to balancing the spice was using a mixture of cream cheese and cheddar, which melts beautifully and enhances the flavors. This combination not only cools down the heat but also brings richness to each bite.

Another tip I learned is to be generous with the cheese filling but ensure that the pastry wraps tight around each popper to prevent any cheese leakage during baking. This way, you’ll have perfectly shaped poppers that are bursting with flavor and surprise. I always serve them with a dipping sauce for an added zest!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spicy with a creamy center
Flaky pastry that adds perfect crunch
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

When selecting jalapenos for your poppers, look for firm, shiny peppers with a deep green color. Smaller jalapenos tend to be spicier, while larger ones are usually milder, so choose according to your heat preference. Additionally, avoid any soft spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness.

For an interesting twist, consider mixing in different types of peppers, such as serranos or even sweet bell peppers for a milder option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on their size and thickness.

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

Using puff pastry adds a delightful texture to your jalapeno poppers. Make sure to roll it out on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking. If it's too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm up; working with cold pastry helps achieve that flaky finish.

You can also use premade pastry sheets, but making your own can elevate your poppers. Just remember to handle the dough as little as possible to maintain its layers, ensuring a perfect rise and golden edges during baking.

Serving and Storing

Serve your jalapeno poppers hot out of the oven for the best texture and flavor. They pair exceptionally well with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing, which also help tame the heat from the jalapenos. You can enhance your presentation by placing them on a decorative platter with fresh herbs.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness. You can also freeze unbaked poppers; just assemble them, then freeze on a baking sheet, and transfer to a container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 package puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are ready before you begin the preparation.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Cut each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for a milder flavor. If you want them spicier, leave a few seeds in.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture generously into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are filled but not overflowing.

Wrap in Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares. Wrap each jalapeno half in a pastry square, sealing the edges with the beaten egg.

Bake the Poppers

Place the wrapped jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. Pair the poppers with a cool ranch or blue cheese dip for an added treat.

Handling Heat

If you're concerned about the heat level of your poppers, you can easily adjust it. Removing all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos will significantly lower the spice. Conversely, for extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling for an exciting kick.

You can also experiment by incorporating spices like smoked paprika or cumin into the cheese mixture. This not only adds complexity to the flavor but also enhances the overall taste experience. Just be cautious with the amounts, as you want the jalapenos to remain the focal point.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply triple or quadruple the ingredient quantities while keeping the same proportions. Make sure you have sufficient baking sheets to accommodate all the poppers, and adjust the baking time if you’re cooking multiple batches at once.

If you're preparing for a party, consider prepping the jalapenos a day in advance. Store the filled and wrapped jalapenos in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them, ensuring they're fresh and crispy when served. This can save time and stress on the day of your event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking step and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What should I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing, guacamole, or a cool sour cream dip.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce heat, remove more seeds from the jalapenos. For more heat, leave some seeds and add diced jalapenos to the cheese mixture.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor.