Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket are a fun twist on a classic snack, bringing together the spicy kick of jalapenos, the creamy goodness of cheese, and the savory taste of little sausages all wrapped up in soft, golden dough. These bite-sized treats are perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat with their snacks and some melty cheese fun in every bite.
I love making these when friends come over because they disappear so fast! The blend of jalapeno and cream cheese adds a nice zing, but it’s not too spicy, so everyone can enjoy them. If you want to tone down the heat, I usually take out the seeds from the jalapenos—that way, they keep their flavor without being too intense.
The best way I serve them is warm right out of the oven, maybe with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re easy to pop in your mouth and make such a crowd-pleaser at parties or game day. Honestly, they remind me of fun gatherings with good laughs and shareable snacks that bring people together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This dough gives the snack its light, flaky outer layer. You can swap it with puff pastry for a flakier and slightly richer bite. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free crescent dough or try wonton wrappers for a different texture.
Mini Cocktail Sausages: Little smokies are perfect here due to their size and smoky flavor. You can substitute with small cooked sausages or even veggie dogs if you want a meat-free version. Just make sure they’re precooked since the baking time is short.
Jalapenos: Fresh sliced jalapenos add the heat and freshness. Removing the seeds tones down the spiciness without losing flavor. If you prefer less heat but want the pepper flavor, try using poblano or banana peppers as a milder alternative.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar: The cream cheese brings creaminess; cheddar adds sharpness. You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for extra kick. If dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
How Do I Roll the Pigs in a Blanket without Cheese or Jalapenos Oozing Out?
Keeping the filling inside while rolling can be tricky. Here’s what helps me:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly but leave some margin near the edges—don’t overload.
- Place the sausage near the wide end, then add jalapenos on top.
- Start rolling tightly from the wide end to the narrow end to seal the filling inside.
- Press the edges gently to seal. If needed, brush the edge with a little water to help it stick.
- Place them seam side down on the baking sheet to prevent unrolling during baking.
These steps help create neat rolls with the filling nicely inside, giving you crisp, golden pockets of flavor without messy leaks.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I prefer a sturdy one to hold all the snacks without spilling.
- Cooling rack or parchment paper – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the cheese and seasoning mixture, it’s simple and quick.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – makes it easy to cut jalapenos and dough into neat triangles.
- Brush or small spoon – for brushing the dough with egg wash or oil if desired for extra shine and crispness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch cheeses – try pepper jack for more spice, or Gruyère for a richer flavor.
- Change the protein – replace sausages with cooked chorizo, chicken strips, or even plant-based sausage for variety.
- Add veggies – chopped cooked bell peppers, onions, or green onions in the cheese mixture add crunch and flavor.
- Use different spices – sprinkle smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or cumin into the cheese spread for extra depth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – to bake your pigs in a blanket evenly.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the cheese and seasonings.
- Sharp knife – to slice the jalapenos thinly and safely.
- Measuring spoons – to measure your spices accurately.
Variations to Try
- Cheese options: Use pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder, gooey center.
- Protein swaps: Try mini hot dogs, cooked chorizo, or veggie sausages for different flavors or dietary preferences.
- Milder peppers: Swap jalapenos for mild banana peppers or roasted red peppers if you want less heat.
- Extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika, cumin, or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture for a smoky or tangy twist.
- Herbs: Fresh chopped green onions or chives can add a nice fresh note inside the cheese mixture.
Can I Use Frozen Jalapenos for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen jalapenos—just thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before adding. This helps prevent soggy dough.
How Can I Make These Less Spicy?
Remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before slicing, as that’s where most of the heat is. You can also reduce the number of jalapeno slices or substitute with milder peppers like banana peppers.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pigs in a blanket, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep the crust crispy.