Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
Highlighted under: Authentic Favorites
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam! This recipe has become a favorite in my household because of the perfect balance between spicy heat and sweet flavor. The cream cheese filling is rich and indulgent, while the homemade jalapeno jam adds that special touch. Cooking these poppers provides an exciting experience as I watch the cheese melt and the peppers crisp up beautifully. They are a hit at gatherings and are perfect for sharing with friends and family!
When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam, I didn't expect them to turn out so flavorful. The combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and sweet jam creates an explosion of taste that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love experimenting with different cheeses and even adding bacon bits for a smoky flavor!
One of the best tips I can share is to select fresh jalapenos that are firm and vibrant in color. It not only enhances the dish's flavor but also makes for an attractive presentation. Once baked, the poppers become irresistibly crunchy on the outside while remaining gooey and satisfying within.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful spicy kick balanced perfectly with sweet jalapeno jam
- Creamy cheese filling that complements the heat of the peppers
- Fun to make and perfect for parties or game day snacking
Understanding the Ingredients
The rich filling of these jalapeno poppers is primarily made up of cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Cream cheese provides a smooth and creamy texture that perfectly balances the heat from the jalapenos. I suggest using full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and consistency. The cheddar cheese not only adds an extra layer of creaminess but also brings a sharp flavor that complements the sweetness of the jalapeno jam beautifully.
When selecting jalapenos, choose firm peppers that are bright green and free from blemishes. The freshness of the jalapenos greatly influences the final taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for larger jalapenos, as their flesh is often less spicy. Conversely, smaller peppers tend to pack more heat, so select based on your spice tolerance.
Perfecting Your Technique
When preparing the jalapenos, it's crucial to remove the seeds and membranes, as these parts hold most of the heat. You can use a small spoon or a paring knife for this task. If you're sensitive to spice, consider wearing gloves while handling the jalapenos to avoid irritation. Once filled, ensure the cheese mixture is compact, so it doesn’t spill out during frying.
Frying the poppers to a golden brown takes careful attention to oil temperature. I recommend keeping the oil at around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the crumbs will brown too quickly without cooking the inside; too cool, and they will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy. Frying in small batches helps maintain the oil temperature and allows for even cooking, resulting in a crispy exterior with a gooey, flavorful interior.
Ingredients
For the Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
For the Jalapeno Jam
- 6 fresh jalapenos, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp pectin
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
Prepare the Jalapeno Jam
In a pot, combine the chopped jalapenos, sugar, apple cider vinegar, pectin, and salt. Bring it to a boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well blended.
Prep the Jalapenos
Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill each half with the cheese mixture.
Coat the Poppers
Dip the filled jalapenos into breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Fry the Poppers
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat. Fry the poppers in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve
Serve the jalapeno poppers hot with the homemade jalapeno jam on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture or use different types of cheese for variety.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can prepare the jalapeno poppers in advance for a hassle-free experience during gatherings. Assemble the filled jalapenos and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the poppers fresh and ready to cook.
For longer storage, you can freeze the poppers before frying. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, increase the frying time by a couple of minutes until golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun twist, consider serving these jalapeno poppers on a platter with various dipping sauces like ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli, alongside the jalapeno jam. This can cater to different taste preferences and enhance the overall snacking experience.
These poppers can also be paired with a refreshing beverage to balance the heat. I recommend a light lager or a zesty margarita. The coolness of the drink cuts through the creaminess of the cheese and the spiciness of the jalapenos, making every bite enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the jalapeno jam in advance?
Yes, the jalapeno jam can be made a few days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
→ Are these poppers very spicy?
The spice level varies depending on the freshness and type of jalapenos used. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat.
→ Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile, but cream cheese provides the best texture.
Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam! This recipe has become a favorite in my household because of the perfect balance between spicy heat and sweet flavor. The cream cheese filling is rich and indulgent, while the homemade jalapeno jam adds that special touch. Cooking these poppers provides an exciting experience as I watch the cheese melt and the peppers crisp up beautifully. They are a hit at gatherings and are perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Created by: Selene Woodward
Recipe Type: Authentic Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 poppers
What You'll Need
For the Jalapeno Poppers
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
For the Jalapeno Jam
- 6 fresh jalapenos, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp pectin
- 1 tsp salt
How-To Steps
In a pot, combine the chopped jalapenos, sugar, apple cider vinegar, pectin, and salt. Bring it to a boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well blended.
Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill each half with the cheese mixture.
Dip the filled jalapenos into breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat. Fry the poppers in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve the jalapeno poppers hot with the homemade jalapeno jam on the side for dipping.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture or use different types of cheese for variety.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g