Directions
- Prepare the baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
- Prep the jalapeños: Slice the tops off all the jalapeños, then cut each pepper in half lengthwise. With a spoon, scrape out and discard the seeds and membranes. Place one cocktail wiener inside each half pepper and trim the pepper so it matches the length of the sausage. Set aside.
- Make the cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Fill the peppers: Remove the sausages from each pepper half. Fill each jalapeño segment generously with the cheese mixture, smoothing the surface slightly. Place the cocktail wiener back on top of the cheese, pressing gently so it adheres.
- Prepare the pastry: Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk until smooth. On a lightly floured surface, unfold one sheet of puff pastry. Cut it into 6 long strips, then cut each strip in half crosswise to create 12 pieces.
- Wrap the poppers: Wrap each stuffed jalapeño segment with one strip of puff pastry, stretching slightly if necessary. Seal the ends using a small amount of egg wash so the pastry sticks together. Place the wrapped pieces seam-side down on the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with all pastry sheets until all peppers are wrapped.
- Egg wash and season: Brush the tops of each wrapped jalapeño with the remaining egg wash. Sprinkle with pretzel salt if you want extra crunch and a savory pretzel-style finish.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Some cheese may ooze out—that’s perfectly fine.
- Clean and cool: Let the jalapeño poppers cool slightly. If cheese has spilled onto the baking sheet, simply scrape it away gently with a knife. The poppers will still be full of melty, delicious cheese.
- Serve: Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
- Servings: About 36 pieces
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Variations & Substitutions
- Extra Spicy Version: Leave a few jalapeño seeds inside or mix ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper into the cheese filling.
- Milder Version: Replace half the jalapeños with mini sweet peppers for a family-friendly tray.
- Bacon Wrapped Twist: Add a thin strip of bacon between the pepper and pastry for extra smokiness.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby cheese to customize the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
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