Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; 1 cup chopped jalapenos; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 packet fruit pectin

Highlighted under: Daily Favorites

I absolutely love serving Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam for parties or casual gatherings. The contrast between the spicy heat of the jalapenos and the sweet, sticky jam creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Making these poppers is easier than it looks; once I mastered the technique of removing the seeds properly, my poppers became the star of every appetizer spread. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up and impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:01:35.440Z

When I first experimented with Jalapeno Poppers, I knew I wanted to pair them with something special, and that’s how I stumbled upon jalapeno jam. The sweetness from the jam balances the spice of the jalapenos beautifully. I recall the first time I served this combo at a friend's get-together; everyone loved it! They kept asking for more, which gave me the confidence to make them a regular appetizer at my parties.

One of the key tricks I learned was not to skip cooling the jalapenos after baking. It allows the filling to bind better and enhances the overall flavor. I often use a mix of cream cheese and cheddar for a creamy, cheesy filling that complements the sweet jam perfectly. This recipe truly impresses and never fails to bring smiles around the table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of spicy and sweet flavors
Crispy exterior with a creamy filling
Always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings

      

Mastering the Jalapeno Prep

Removing the seeds from jalapenos can significantly tame their heat, making them more enjoyable for everyone. To do this, I recommend using a small paring knife to cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise. Carefully scrape out the seeds and white membranes with a spoon or melon baller. This technique ensures that the filling's creaminess shines through without being overwhelmed by excessive heat, leading to a balanced bite.

If you're working with particularly spicy jalapenos, consider soaking them in a solution of water and vinegar for about 15 minutes before prepping. This can help draw out some heat while maintaining the pepper’s flavor profile. Always taste a small piece of the pepper before using it to gauge its heat level—this will guide you in how much filling you might want to use!

Perfecting the Frying Technique

Frying the poppers requires careful attention to the oil temperature. Heat the vegetable oil to around 350°F (175°C); if you don't have a thermometer, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; it should bubble and brown within about 30 seconds. Frying at the correct temperature ensures a crispy outer shell without burning the breadcrumbs, which can lead to a bitter taste.

As you fry, do not overcrowd the pan; this can lower the oil’s temperature and result in greasy, soggy poppers. Instead, fry in batches, allowing approximately 3-4 minutes per batch or until they have attained a beautiful golden brown color. After frying, place the poppers on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil—this step helps keep them crispy until serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Jalapeno Jam

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

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapeno Jam

In a saucepan, combine chopped jalapenos, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir in the pectin and boil for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool. Store in a jar.

Make the filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Stuff the jalapenos

Spoon the filling mixture into each jalapeno half, packing it in well.

Coat and fry the poppers

Roll each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and fry each popper until golden brown.

Serve and enjoy

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Serve with the jalapeno jam on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider using pepper jack cheese in the filling or adding crumbled bacon for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and dips. While the jalapeno jam provides a lovely contrast, consider offering a creamy ranch dressing or a zesty cilantro-lime sauce on the side. The cooling effect of these dips complements the heat of the jalapenos, balancing flavors beautifully and adding another layer to your guests' experience.

For an extra touch, serve the jalapeno poppers on a platter with fresh vegetables, such as carrot and celery sticks, which can cleanse the palate between bites. This array not only looks inviting but also provides a refreshing crunch that enhances the overall enjoyment of your appetizer spread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover jalapeno poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the poppers on a baking sheet, and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and regain their crispness.

Alternatively, these poppers can be frozen before frying. To do this, prepare them completely, and place the uncooked poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the frying time for perfectly crispy appetizers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake the jalapeno poppers instead of frying them?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore some crispiness.

→ Can I make the jalapeno jam ahead of time?

Absolutely! The jalapeno jam can be made a week in advance and stored in the fridge. It also makes a great gift!

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter filling.