Jalapeño Popper Mummies: A Spooky, Cheesy Appetizer for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and utterly delicious appetizer, look no further than Jalapeño Popper Mummies. Perfect for Halloween parties, game-day gatherings, or just a playful snack, these cheesy, dough-wrapped jalapeños bring together the irresistible flavors of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and golden crescent dough.

What makes these popper mummies so special is their presentation. Each jalapeño is transformed into a little mummy, complete with a cheesy filling wrapped in crescent dough and topped with adorable candy eyes (or sliced olives for a savory version). Not only do they taste incredible, but they also bring a festive flair to any table.

Ready in under 45 minutes, these Jalapeño Popper Mummies are the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crispy—and they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Prep and bake in just 42 minutes.
• Fun & Festive: Perfect for Halloween, parties, or themed gatherings.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels, cheese types, or use savory toppings.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Bite-sized and full of flavor, perfect for sharing.
• Minimal Equipment: Just baking sheets, mixing bowls, and an oven required.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 10 jalapeños, sliced in half lengthwise, seeds removed
• 12 oz Pillsbury crescent rolls
• 1 egg, lightly beaten with 1 Tbsp water (for egg wash)
• 40 small candy eyeballs or sliced black olives

Equipment Needed

• Insulated baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Foil or parchment paper for lining baking trays
• Small knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Jalapeños

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large baking tray with foil and lightly spray with olive oil cooking spray.
3. Slice the jalapeños lengthwise and remove the seeds. Partially remove the pith/ribs to reduce some heat while keeping the peppers spicy and flavorful.

Step 2 – Make the Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Cream cheese
   • Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
   • Garlic powder
   • Onion powder
   • Salt and black pepper
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3 – Fill the Jalapeños

1. Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously but leaving a little space at the top for wrapping.

Step 4 – Prepare the Crescent Roll Wrapping

1. Unroll the crescent rolls and divide them into 4 rectangles by pushing two triangles together at the perforations.
2. Slice each rectangle lengthwise into 10 strips.

Step 5 – Wrap the Mummies

1. Wrap each cheese-stuffed jalapeño half with 2 strips of crescent dough, leaving a small gap at the top for the eyes.
2. Arrange the wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking tray.
3. Lightly brush the dough with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 6 – Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.
2. Watch carefully to avoid over-baking.

Step 7 – Add the Eyes

1. Remove from the oven and immediately press 2 candy eyeballs or sliced olives into each mummy.
2. Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the Heat: For a milder version, remove all seeds and ribs from the jalapeños.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: Fill and wrap jalapeños in advance; store on a baking sheet in the fridge until ready to bake.
• Serve Warm: These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they can be reheated at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
• Fun Presentation: Serve on a black or themed Halloween platter for a spooky effect.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Ranch, blue cheese, or a creamy sriracha sauce pairs beautifully.
• Party Platter: Arrange with other Halloween-themed snacks like mummy hot dogs or deviled eggs for a festive spread.
• Beverage Pairing: Pairs well with light beers, sparkling cider, or a tangy lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and wrap the jalapeños in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for best results.

2. Can I use different cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, pepper jack, or even a mixture of cheeses work well. Just ensure they melt easily.

3. What if I don’t have candy eyes?

Sliced black olives are the perfect savory substitute. You can also use small pieces of bell pepper or tiny mozzarella balls.

4. Can I make them less spicy?

Remove all seeds and pith from the jalapeños, or substitute with mini sweet peppers.

5. How long do leftovers last?

Store any leftover jalapeño poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes for best texture.

Why These Jalapeño Popper Mummies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crispy golden dough is irresistible. The playful mummy presentation makes them visually appealing, especially for themed parties or family gatherings. They’re bite-sized, flavorful, and fun — perfect for both kids and adults.

Final Thoughts

Jalapeño Popper Mummies are more than just an appetizer; they’re an experience. They offer a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch, all wrapped in a festive and playful package. Whether for Halloween, a game night, or just because you love cheese-stuffed jalapeños, these popper mummies are guaranteed to delight and impress your guests.

With minimal prep and a short bake time, you can easily make 20 fun, cheesy mummies that disappear almost as quickly as you serve them. Don’t forget to add your eyeballs for that spooky finishing touch—they bring these mummies to life!

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