Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 slices of bacon, cut in half; 1 cup chopped jalapenos; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 packet pectin

Highlighted under: International Favorites

I always look forward to making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam when I want a spicy yet sweet snack. These poppers are stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture and paired with the perfect balance of heat from the jalapenos and sweetness from the jam. They are great for parties or casual gatherings, and I love how easy they are to make. Plus, the combination of flavors truly elevates this dish, making it an irresistible treat that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Ione Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:21:34.525Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was surprised at how simple yet rewarding the process was. I experimented with different fillings, but the classic cream cheese combo combined with spices is absolutely unbeatable. I also found that adding a little cheddar gives it an extra cheesy texture that melts in your mouth.

Pairing these poppers with homemade jalapeno jam was a game changer. The sweetness of the jam perfectly counteracts the heat from the peppers, creating a delightful contrast in each bite. Plus, the vibrant color makes for such an appealing presentation at gatherings!

Why You'll Love These Poppers
The perfect blend of spicy and sweet flavors
Crispy texture adds crunch to each bite
Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The key to an exceptional jalapeno popper lies in the ingredient balance. The cream cheese provides a rich and creamy base, complementing the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. Together, they create a filling that contrasts beautifully with the spicy jalapenos. For an elevated flavor profile, consider using smoked cheddar or adding fresh herbs like chives or cilantro to the cheese mixture. This small tweak can add a depth of flavor that elevates your poppers to the next level.

Choosing the right jalapenos is vital for achieving your desired heat level. Be aware that the heat can vary significantly between individual peppers. If you’re uncertain, taste a small piece of the pepper's flesh before using it. If you want milder poppers, remove all the seeds and inner membranes, as these hold most of the heat. Conversely, keep some membranes if you dare to spice things up!

Perfecting the Bacon Wrap

Bacon enhances the flavor and texture of jalapeno poppers with its salty and savory qualities. Make sure to use thin-cut bacon, as it crisps up nicely within the baking time without overwhelming the popper. If you opt for thick-cut bacon, consider partially cooking it first for about 5-7 minutes to render some fat before wrapping the poppers. This will ensure your poppers don’t become overly greasy while still achieving that perfect crunch.

Wrapping each jalapeno securely is essential; use a toothpick to keep the bacon in place if needed. A good method is to start wrapping from one end and spiral down to the other, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. This technique not only looks appealing but also helps the bacon cook evenly and crisp up throughout the popping process.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed fresh from the oven with the jalapeno jam as a dipping sauce. The sweetness of the jam perfectly balances the heat, making each bite a delightful experience. For added flair, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro to add color and freshness to your serving plate.

If you're looking to make ahead, the stuffed jalapenos can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just wrap them with bacon right before baking to ensure they stay crispy. For freezing, place the unbaked poppers on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers:

12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
12 slices of bacon, cut in half

For the Jalapeno Jam:

1 cup chopped jalapenos
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 packet pectin

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeno Jam

In a saucepan, combine chopped jalapenos, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and pectin. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed jalapeno half with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.

Bake the Poppers

Place the poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Serve with jalapeno jam on the side.

Pro Tips

For a milder version, use less jalapeno pepper or replace half of them with sweet peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses for stuffing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with jalapeno poppers is that they can turn out soggy, especially if the bacon isn't rendered properly. Ensuring the bacon is thin and not overlapped too much is key to crispy results. If your bacon is limp after the baking time, broil your poppers for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Another challenge can be overcooked, dried-out poppers. To avoid this, keep an eye on the baking time, especially if your oven runs hot. The poppers are ready when the bacon is golden brown and crispy, usually around 15-20 minutes at 400°F. You might want to use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the filling reaches 165°F for food safety without drying it out.

Flavor Variations to Try

While traditional cheese fillings are fantastic, experimenting with different flavors can lead to exciting variations. Consider adding crumbled feta cheese or blue cheese for a more robust taste. You can also incorporate ingredients like cooked sausage or ground turkey into the cheese mixture for a heartier snack that packs a punch.

For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, adding a hint of cinnamon or brown sugar to the cheese mixture can add an unexpected twist. Alternatively, you could mix in chopped pineapple or mango for a sweet tropical vibe, pairing excellently with the heat of the jalapenos.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large party. For a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can affect cooking times and the crispiness of the bacon. Each baking sheet should have enough space between poppers to allow for proper heat circulation.

If you're cooking for one or two, you can easily halve the ingredients. However, consider making a full batch and freezing the extras for a quick snack later. Poppers can be reheated directly from the freezer, making them a convenient option for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapenos a day in advance. Just wrap and bake them right before serving.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce the spice, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. Alternatively, you could mix in some sweet bell peppers.

→ Can I freeze the poppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked, stuffed poppers. Just bake them straight from frozen for an additional 5-10 minutes.

→ What other dips can I serve with them?

Aside from jalapeno jam, try serving with ranch dressing or a creamy avocado dip for added flavor.