These Mummy Jalapeño Poppers are spooky, cheesy treats wrapped in a flaky blanket. They’re perfect for Halloween fun or anytime you want a tasty snack!
When I make these, I can’t help but laugh at how cute they look! Plus, the creamy cheese mixed with a little heat from jalapeños is sure to make everyone smile. 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños bring that spicy kick! If you want milder heat, use poblano peppers or sweet mini peppers. You can also mix different peppers for variety.
Cream Cheese: This creamy base makes the filling rich and smooth. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. I’ve found brands made with cashews or soy work well!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds great flavor. Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick!
Crescent Roll Dough: I love using refrigerated crescent rolls for ease. You can swap it for puff pastry if you want a flakier texture. Just be sure to adjust baking time slightly!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty finish. Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) are great substitutes!
How Do I Make Sure My Crescent Dough Stays in Place?
Wrapping jalapeños with dough can be tricky, but here’s how to do it effortlessly:
- Don’t stretch the dough too much when wrapping; it could break. Just use gentle pressure.
- Leave small gaps between the strips for a “mummy” look; too much dough will cause it to bake unevenly.
- Brush melted butter on the dough before baking for added flavor and crispiness.
Take your time with the wrapping; it adds to the fun, and cute, spooky presentation is what we’re going for here! 🎃
Mummy Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sheet refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Edible candy eyes or small dots of cream cheese with black food coloring for eyes
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 to 18 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes before you can enjoy these spooky treats!
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the poppers from sticking.
2. Make the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Fill the Jalapeños
Take your halved jalapeños and carefully fill each one with the cheese mixture using a spoon. Be sure not to overstuff them, so they don’t spill out when baking.
4. Wrap with Crescent Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut it into strips about 1/2 inch wide. Start wrapping the cheese-filled jalapeño halves with these strips, leaving some gaps to give them a “mummy” appearance.
5. Bake the Poppers
Place the wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over them. This will give them an extra delicious finish!
6. Watch Them Bake
Bake in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and fully cooked. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Add the Finishing Touches
Once they’re done, take the poppers out of the oven and let them cool for a bit. Then, attach the candy eyes to each popper using a little dab of cream cheese or frosting as glue to make them look spooky.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These Mummy Jalapeño Poppers are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo. Enjoy the fun and delicious flavors!
Happy snacking! 🎃
Can I Use Other Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use poblano or banana peppers. For an extra kick, try using serrano peppers instead of jalapeños!
How Can I Make These Vegan?
To make these jalapeño poppers vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and swap the cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese. You can also use whipped silken tofu for a creamy filling!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the jalapeño poppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just wrap them in plastic wrap or cover them in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake them.
What Should I Serve with Mummy Jalapeño Poppers?
These poppers pair well with various dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, cilantro-lime crema, or spicy sriracha mayo. They also make a great finger food option for parties or game days!
