Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; 1 cup diced jalapenos; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup water; 1/4 cup pectin

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam as a spicy and sweet appetizer that never fails to impress my friends and family. The combination of creamy cheese and crispy, golden jalapenos perfectly complements the sweet and tangy jam. This dish always sparks conversation at gatherings, and there's nothing quite like the burst of flavor when you take that first bite. Plus, it's simple to prepare and will elevate your next get-together with its bold flavors and delightful crunch.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:29:34.410Z

When I first tried Jalapeno Poppers with Jalapeno Jam, I was amazed by how the spicy peppers paired with the sweetness of the jam created such an irresistible flavor profile. I experimented with various cheeses and eventually settled on a mix of cream cheese and cheddar for the perfect blend of creaminess and tang. Baking them instead of frying has really allowed the jalapenos to shine without getting too greasy, and it’s made cleanup a breeze.

Each time I make these poppers, I like to serve them with a side of extra jalapeno jam. This becomes a delicious dipping sauce, and I’ve found that the sweetness tames the heat just right. Plus, it's always a conversation starter when guests ask for the recipe—little do they know it’s so easy to whip up!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of spicy and sweet
Crispy texture with creamy filling
Impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer

Perfecting the Jalapeno Jam

Making your own jalapeno jam is not just rewarding, it's also a key element that elevates these poppers. The balance of sweetness from the sugar and the acidity from apple cider vinegar creates a vibrant contrast to the spiciness of the jalapenos. A tip when cooking the jam is to stir continuously as it thickens; this ensures that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the saucepan and burn. The final result should be a glossy syrup that coats the back of a spoon.

For those looking to customize the heat level, feel free to adjust the quantity of diced jalapenos. Removing the seeds can also dramatically cool down the spice. If you prefer a fruitier twist, consider adding a small amount of crushed pineapple or peach during the jam-making process for a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy notes.

Stuffing and Breading the Poppers

When stuffing the jalapenos, don't be shy about packing in the cheese mixture tightly. This ensures a richer flavor in every bite and prevents the filling from oozing out during baking. A small offset spatula or butter knife works well for this task, allowing you to smooth out the top for an even surface. If you're looking for an extra layer of flavor, you might consider mixing in some crumbled bacon or finely diced green onions into the cheese mixture.

Breading the poppers not only adds a delightful crunch but also gives them a golden appearance that is visually appealing. After coating them in breadcrumbs, let them sit for a few minutes before baking. This resting period allows the crumbs to adhere better, resulting in a crispy texture once baked. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can skip the breadcrumbs altogether and simply brush the stuffed jalapenos with olive oil before baking.

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

8 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

For the Jalapeno Jam

1 cup diced jalapenos
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup pectin

Gather all ingredients for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeno Jam

In a saucepan, combine diced jalapenos, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil and then simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in pectin and continue to cook until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling stays in place.

Bread the Poppers

Dip each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, coating evenly. Place on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake

Bake the jalapenos in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Serve hot with jalapeno jam on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your Jalapeno Poppers fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos when preparing them. You can also experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, making them great for entertaining. Prepare the poppers up to the baking step and store them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing their taste. When ready to serve, simply remove them from the fridge, uncover, and bake as directed for a quick appetizer that tastes freshly made.

If you have leftovers after your gathering, store the cooled poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

To really showcase the jalapeno poppers, serve them on a generous platter with the homemade jalapeno jam in the center, along with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. You can also add a side of sour cream or creamy ranch dressing to balance the spice with a cool element. This contrast not only enhances the flavors but also makes for an appealing presentation that draws your guests in.

These poppers are incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a game-day snack, or even as a party centerpiece. If you want to change things up, consider serving them over a bed of arugula or mixed greens, drizzled lightly with balsamic glaze, which adds an unexpected twist to the dish while providing a refreshing crunch that complements the warm poppers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with Jalapeno Poppers?

These poppers pair well with salsa, guacamole, or even a creamy ranch dressing.

→ Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! You can try using sweet peppers for a milder flavor or other spicy peppers if you enjoy more heat.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.