Print

Crispy Hot Honey Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers

hot honey cheese-stuffed jalapeño poppers - featured image

These crispy hot honey cheese-stuffed jalapeño poppers combine a golden crunchy exterior with a spicy jalapeño kick and a sweet honey mustard glaze, perfect for parties and quick snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium-sized fresh jalapeños, washed and halved lengthwise
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • About 2 cups (475 ml) vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup (85 g) honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes to control heat. Use gloves if sensitive.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Set up the breading station with flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  5. Gently press each stuffed jalapeño into the flour, then dip into the egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating twice more, letting the poppers rest 5 minutes between coats.
  6. Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to about 2 inches deep and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry the poppers in batches without overcrowding for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  8. While frying, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce in a small bowl to make the glaze.
  9. Toss the fried poppers lightly in the honey mustard glaze or brush it on generously. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F to avoid burning or soggy poppers. Rest poppers between breading layers for better coating adhesion. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Glaze while poppers are warm but not hot to prevent glaze from sliding off. For a lighter option, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, turning halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño poppers, hot honey, cheese-stuffed, crispy, party snacks, appetizer, spicy, sweet glaze