Jalapeño Popper Mummies are a fun twist on a favorite snack! These little guys are stuffed with cream cheese and spicy jalapeños, all wrapped up in flaky dough.
Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, they add a spooky touch to your table—who knew mummies could be so tasty? I love serving these with a side of ranch for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños give the best flavor and heat. If you want less spice, try using mini bell peppers or mild poblano peppers instead.
Cream Cheese: This is essential for that creamy texture. You can mix in some sour cream for a tangy twist or use a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a bold flavor. You could also use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for more spice.
Bacon: Bacon adds a savory crunch, but you can skip it for a vegetarian version. Try using a plant-based bacon alternative if you want that flavor.
Puff Pastry: If you’re out of puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough for a different texture. It’s still delicious!
How Do You Wrap the Jalapeños Like Mummies?
Wrapping the jalapeños is all about getting that mummy look. Here’s how to do it:
- After filling the jalapeño halves with the cheese mixture, take your puff pastry strips. Make them about 1/4 inch wide for the best effect.
- Start wrapping from the bottom to the top, leaving space at the top for the “face.” Don’t worry about being too neat; a messy wrap gives it character!
- For extra fun, try wrapping the pastry in a zig-zag pattern for a more authentic mummy look.
Make sure to leave enough space at the top for the eyes to show. Enjoy the creative process—each mummy can have its personality! Your guests will love them.
Jalapeño Popper Mummies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 2 large eggs, beaten (for egg wash)
- Edible candy eyes or small dots of cream cheese mixed with black food coloring (for eyes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a deliciously spooky snack in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Next, slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Make sure to carefully remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. If you like it spicy, feel free to keep some of the seeds!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon if you’re using it. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is creamy and combined.
4. Fill the Jalapeños:
Take spoonfuls of the cheese mixture and fill each jalapeño half, making sure they’re generously stuffed—you want them to be deliciously gooey!
5. Wrap with Puff Pastry:
Now for the fun part! Cut your puff pastry sheet into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide. Start wrapping the strips around each stuffed jalapeño half. Crisscross them to look like mummy wrappings, leaving the top open for the “face.”
6. Place and Egg Wash:
Place the wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet. Then, take your beaten egg and lightly brush it over the puff pastry to give it a nice golden finish when baked.
7. Bake the Mummies:
Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the pastry is puffed and golden brown!
8. Add the Final Touch: Eyes!
Once baked, remove the mummies from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, place two candy eyes or dots of cream cheese with black food coloring on each jalapeño “face” to give them their adorable spooky look.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these mummies warm, and they’re best enjoyed with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy these adorable and delicious Jalapeño Popper Mummies as a fun Halloween appetizer or for any gathering! Happy snacking!
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Puff Pastry?
Both work great! If you’re using frozen puff pastry, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. This helps it to stretch and wrap easily around the jalapeños.
What Can I Substitute for Jalapeños?
If you’re looking for a milder flavor, try using mini sweet peppers or banana peppers instead. They won’t pack the same heat, but they will still be deliciously creamy and fun!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the jalapeño poppers and wrap them in puff pastry, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the pastry’s crispiness.