These Jalapeño Popper Mummies are a fun twist on a classic treat! They are made with creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños, all wrapped up in flaky pastry like little mummies.
Perfect for Halloween parties or game day, they are both cute and tasty. I love serving them hot out of the oven, so everyone can enjoy that gooey cheese goodness together! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Choose large, fresh jalapeños for the best flavor. If you want something milder, try using mini sweet peppers as a substitute. They won’t pack the same heat, but they’ll still be tasty!
Cream Cheese: This adds the creamy texture to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese. For dairy-free, a nut-based cream cheese works well.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its flavor, but you can use any cheese you enjoy. Pepper jack can add additional spice, or for a milder taste, use mozzarella.
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry creates that lovely mummy wrap! If you’re out of puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough for a similar effect, just adjust the bake time slightly as crescent dough might bake quicker.
What’s the Best Way to Handle Jalapeños?
Handling jalapeños can be a bit tricky due to their heat! Here’s how to make it easier:
- Wear gloves when cutting to protect your hands from the oils.
- Cut them lengthwise and scoop out the seeds/membranes if you want to reduce the heat.
- If you like it hot, leave some seeds behind!
This way, you can enjoy the flavors without the intense spice overwhelming your taste buds!
How Do I Make Sure My Puff Pastry Is Perfect?
Getting golden, flaky pastry is key to these mummies:
- Make sure the pastry is cold when you work with it; this helps it puff up while baking.
- Don’t overlap the strips too much. Less is more when it comes to wrapping; you want to see some of that green!
- Brush with egg wash right before baking for that beautiful golden color.
Following these tips will ensure that your Jalapeño Popper Mummies turn out beautiful and delicious!
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Mummies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 12 small black peppercorns or black sesame seeds (for eyes)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. You can have these spooky treats ready to enjoy in about 35-40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven warming up to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Cut your jalapeños in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes if you want a milder flavor. But if you enjoy a good kick, feel free to leave some in!
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Fill the Jalapeños:
Take the cheese mixture and fill each jalapeño half generously. Don’t be shy—this is the tasty part!
5. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet. Cut it into thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide) that will wrap around the jalapeño halves.
6. Wrap the Mummies:
Take the strips of puff pastry and wrap them around the cheese-filled jalapeños, leaving space at the top for where the eyes will go. Have fun with it and make them look like mummies!
7. Add the Eyes:
Press the black peppercorns or sesame seeds gently into the cream cheese filling where you left the space. This will give your mummies their spooky eyes!
8. Bake the Mummies:
Place the wrapped jalapeño poppers on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the puff pastry lightly with the beaten egg to help them get a beautiful golden color in the oven.
9. Cooking Time:
Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the puff pastry is puffy and golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let your Jalapeño Popper Mummies cool slightly before serving. Trust me, they will be a hit!
Enjoy your adorable and delicious Jalapeño Popper Mummies—perfect for a spooky party treat! 🎃
Can I Use Different Peppers Instead of Jalapeños?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use mini sweet peppers or even banana peppers. Just keep in mind that the spiciness will be significantly less with these options.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispiness of the pastry.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will still provide a creamy texture for your filling!
Can I Prepare These Mummies in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the Jalapeño Popper Mummies up to a day ahead. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge, then bake them just before serving for the best results.
