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 servings
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeds removed; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil spray for greasing; 1 cup chopped jalapenos (seeds and stems removed); 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 tsp pectin

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam because they transform a simple appetizer into a flavor-packed delight. The combination of crispy, cheesy poppers with a sweet and spicy jam is simply irresistible. Whether I'm hosting friends or treating my family, these are always a hit! I find that roasting the jalapenos brings out their natural sweetness, and the cream cheese filling balances the heat perfectly. It’s a treat that never fails to impress and keeps everyone coming back for more!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:58:17.030Z

When I first tried making Jalapeno Poppers, I was amazed at how delicious they could be, especially when paired with a homemade jalapeno jam. I experimented with different spices and fillings, ultimately settling on a blend of cream cheese and cheddar for that perfect cheesy bite. The first time I served them, they disappeared in minutes!

One essential tip I learned is to soak the jalapenos in water before roasting. This step not only helps reduce their heat but also creates a tender skin that holds the stuffing beautifully. Trust me, this makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center
Perfect balance of spicy and sweet with the jalapeno jam
Great for parties or a cozy night in

      

Essential Tips for Perfect Poppers

To achieve the perfect texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened adequately before mixing. This allows it to blend seamlessly with the shredded cheddar, creating a creamy filling that easily adheres to the jalapeno halves. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds to make it easier to combine, but be cautious not to overheat it, as this can affect its consistency.

Be mindful of the jalapenos you choose. When selecting jalapenos, look for firm, shiny peppers without blemishes. The size can dictate how spicy they are; larger jalapenos tend to be milder. If you're concerned about heat, try roasting a small piece before stuffing to gauge the spice level. If they're too hot, serve with a dollop of sour cream to cool the burn.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delectable presentation, consider drizzling the finished jalapeno poppers with a bit of the jalapeno jam right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing glossy finish that makes them stand out on your party platter. Alternatively, you can serve them alongside a fresh avocado dip or yogurt-based sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Feel free to experiment with the filling! Adding cooked bacon crumbles or diced chorizo to the cheese mixture adds an extra layer of flavor. For a vegetarian option, swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative, making these poppers suitable for various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 jalapenos, halved and seeds removed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil spray for greasing

For the Jalapeno Jam

1 cup chopped jalapenos (seeds and stems removed)
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp pectin

Instructions

Make the Jalapeno Jam

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped jalapenos, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in pectin and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.

Remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare the Poppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stuff each jalapeno half generously with the cheese mixture.

Coat and Bake

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. Spray a baking sheet with oil and place the poppers on it. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tips

For a milder version, remove the seeds fully and soak the jalapenos before preparing. Pair these poppers with a refreshing drink to cut through the spice!

Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for parties. Once you stuff the jalapenos with the cheese mixture, place them on a baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for an even tastier bite.

If you want to freeze them, lay the unbaked poppers on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they do not overcook.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your poppers are too watery after baking, it may be due to using jalapenos that were not adequately dried after washing. Make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before stuffing. Additionally, if the cheese mixture is too runny, add more shredded cheese or breadcrumbs until it achieves a firmer consistency that's easy to stuff.

For those who find their breadcrumbs haven’t crisped up as expected, try increasing the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last few minutes of baking. I also recommend broiling them for a minute or two at the end—just watch them closely to avoid burning!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapeno poppers and keep them in the fridge for a day before baking. Just bake them right before serving for the best results.

→ How do I store leftover jalapeno poppers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these poppers?

These jalapeno poppers pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or the homemade jalapeno jam for dipping.