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; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1 cup fresh jalapenos, finely chopped; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon pectin

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up a batch of Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam whenever I'm entertaining. The combination of spicy jalapenos stuffed with creamy cheese and the sweet, tangy jam creates an incredible flavor explosion that my friends and family can't resist. The crispy breading adds a delightful crunch, making these poppers a standout appetizer. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:19:10.335Z

Every time I make Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam, I'm flooded with memories of backyard barbecues. The aroma of the roasting peppers mingling with the sweetness of the jam instantly brings everyone to the table. I tried different cheese fillings, but a blend of cream cheese and cheddar truly won my heart—it melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with the jalapenos.

The real game-changer is the jalapeno jam. I always made it from scratch using fresh jalapenos, sugar, and vinegar. It balances the heat of the jalapenos in a way that leaves everyone wanting more. I've even started gifting it during holidays!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy and cheesy flavor that creates a perfect blend of taste
Sweet and tangy jalapeno jam enhances the overall experience
Crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling

      

Jalapeno Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for the perfect popper. Look for glossy, firm peppers that feel heavy for their size. Large jalapenos are easier to stuff and provide a great balance of heat and flavor. When preparing, make sure to slice them evenly down the middle and remove all seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder taste. If you want to amp up the spice, leave a few seeds for an extra kick.

When mixing your cheese filling, ensure the cream cheese is room temperature for easy blending. This will help achieve a smooth and creamy texture without lumps. If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding diced cooked bacon or finely chopped green onions to the cheese mixture for added depth and flavor. Just be cautious not to overfill the jalapenos, as this can cause them to overflow while frying.

Frying Techniques for Perfect Poppers

Frying the jalapeno poppers is key to achieving that crispy outer layer. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to maintain an even temperature, which helps prevent uneven cooking or burning. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the poppers; this temperature is ideal for creating that golden-brown crust. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping in a breadcrumb piece; it should sizzle immediately.

It’s important to fry the poppers in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers the oil temperature. Fry each side for approximately 3-4 minutes until they are golden and crispy. After frying, let them sit for a moment on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step ensures your poppers stay crispy instead of becoming soggy on the plate.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Jalapeno Jam

1 cup fresh jalapenos, finely chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon pectin

Note: Adjust the number of jalapenos based on your preference for spice.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeno Jam

In a saucepan, mix chopped jalapenos, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add pectin and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare and Stuff the Poppers

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove seeds. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.

Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

Coat and Fry the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the poppers until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve

Serve the hot jalapeno poppers immediately with jalapeno jam on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding crumbled bacon into the cheese filling or use different types of cheese for unique flavors!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for parties. After stuffing and coating the poppers, place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld together and saves you valuable time on the day of your event.

For longer storage, un-fried poppers can be frozen. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to cook them, no need to thaw; just add a minute or two to the frying time to ensure they cook through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful presentation, serve the jalapeno poppers on a platter with a variety of dipping options aside from jalapeno jam. Creamy ranch dressing, sour cream, or a zesty cilantro lime sauce can elevate the flavor experience. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Pepper jack cheese can add a delightful heat, while goat cheese will offer a rich, tangy contrast. You can also try additional spices like smoked paprika or cumin in the breadcrumb coating for an interesting flavor twist. Get creative and make these poppers uniquely yours!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make jalapeno poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the poppers and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before frying.

→ How can I make the jalapeno jam spicier?

Use more jalapenos and leave some seeds in for added heat.

→ Can I bake these poppers instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

→ What can I serve with jalapeno poppers?

They pair well with ranch dressing or a creamy dip for a nice contrast.