Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 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; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray; 1 cup finely chopped jalapenos; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup pectin

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love creating memorable appetizers, and these Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam have become a favorite in my kitchen. The balance of heat from the jalapenos paired with the sweetness of the jam is simply irresistible. When I first combined these flavors, I was amazed at how well they complemented each other, making every bite a delightful surprise. Perfect for parties or game days, these poppers are always a hit with friends and family. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, which is a bonus when entertaining!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:04:20.669Z

When I first attempted to make Jalapeno Poppers, I never expected them to be such a crowd-pleaser. The combination of spicy jalapenos stuffed with a creamy filling and topped with a sweet homemade jam was a revelation. I experimented with various fillings, but cream cheese mixed with spices truly made it a standout. The key is to balance the heat with just the right amount of sweetness from the jam, which elevates the entire dish.

Each time I make these poppers, I enjoy tweaking the recipe slightly, adding different herbs or cheeses to see what magical combination I can conjure. I’ve learned that baking them instead of frying yields a lovely crisp while keeping the insides creamy. These poppers are a great way to impress guests while keeping things simple in the kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick balanced perfectly with sweet jalapeno jam
Creamy and cheesy filling that satisfies every craving
Great for sharing at gatherings or as a delicious snack

      

Understanding Jalapenos

Jalapenos are versatile and can vary in heat depending on factors such as their size and ripeness. For this recipe, using large jalapenos not only facilitates stuffing but provides a juicy bite that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, consider removing more of the seeds and membranes, which contain much of the pepper's heat. Conversely, choose smaller, riper jalapenos if you’re looking for a more intense spice kick to pair with the sweetness of the jam.

When selecting jalapenos, look for firm peppers with shiny skin, as these indicators suggest freshness. Avoid any with wrinkles or blemishes, as they may have started to spoil. The quality of jalapenos can significantly influence the flavor of your poppers, so it's worth taking the time to choose the best ones for a standout appetizer.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The balance of flavors in the filling is integral to the success of your Jalapeno Poppers. Cream cheese provides the creamy base, while cheddar cheese adds sharpness and depth. If you're seeking a bit more complexity, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or diced green onions to the mixture. These additions complement the smokiness of the paprika and enhance the overall taste without overwhelming the jalapeno flavor.

Mix the cheeses thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings. You want a consistently creamy texture that makes stuffing the jalapenos effortless. If the mixture feels too thick, an extra tablespoon of cream cheese can help loosen it up. Use a pastry bag for a mess-free stuffing option if you want to ensure a neat filling process.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Jalapeno Poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them fresh, make sure they cool completely before sealing. If you're planning to make these ahead, consider preparing them up to the stuffing stage and storing the unbaked poppers. This allows you to enjoy fresh, hot poppers straight from the oven with minimal effort when you're ready.

For reheating, place the poppers on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this could result in soggy breadcrumbs and loss of texture. The goal is to maintain that crispy exterior while ensuring the cheesy filling is warm and inviting.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 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
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

For the Jalapeno Jam

1 cup finely chopped jalapenos
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup pectin

Ensure you have everything prepped before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create irresistible Jalapeno Poppers!

Prepare the Jalapeno Jam

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped jalapenos, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. Stir in pectin and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until thickened. Set aside to cool.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until well mixed.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure it's packed in.

Coat the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the poppers are golden brown and heated through.

Serve

Serve immediately, drizzled with the jalapeno jam for a delicious sweet and spicy experience!

Enjoy these delightful Jalapeno Poppers fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding cooked bacon to the cheese filling. This will add a smoky element that pairs beautifully with the heat of the jalapenos.

Serving Suggestions

These Jalapeno Poppers are fantastic on their own, but they shine even more when served alongside a cool, creamy dip, such as ranch or sour cream, which helps temper the heat. A drizzle of lime juice can also enhance the flavors, offering a nice zest that pairs wonderfully with the jalapenos. Don't forget about the homemade jalapeno jam – having a small bowl on the side invites guests to customize their flavor experience with sweet accents.

For larger gatherings, consider pairing these poppers with other appetizers like buffalo wings or veggie platters. The contrast between the spicy poppers and the crisp veggies offers a great balance, making for a well-rounded spread that caters to different taste preferences.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations in the filling. Incorporating pepper jack can add an extra layer of heat, while a melty mozzarella can dial back the spice while keeping a gooey texture. You can also try infusing the cream cheese with herbs such as cilantro or basil for fresh, vibrant notes, or even add a touch of lime zest for a citrusy twist.

If you're looking to make these poppers more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or rice to the cheese mixture. This not only makes the poppers heartier but also provides an interesting texture contrast with the crunch of the breadcrumbs and the creaminess of the cheese. Adjusting the recipe in this way allows for both nutritional value and playful experimentation in flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the poppers, stuff them, and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight before baking.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment! Pepper jack or feta can add a wonderful twist to the flavor profile.

→ What should I do with leftover jalapeno jam?

Leftover jalapeno jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month and used as a glaze for meats or as a topping for cream cheese on crackers.

→ Are these poppers very spicy?

The spice level can vary depending on the jalapenos you use. For a milder version, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes inside.