Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1 ripe avocado; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I can't get enough of these Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream! They strike the perfect balance between heat and creaminess, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy filling, and the cool avocado cream pulls everything together beautifully. Whether it's game day or a casual get-together with friends, these poppers always steal the show. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll be requested every time!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:13:35.120Z

I was looking for a fun yet simple party appetizer when I decided to whip up these Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream. The combination of spicy jalapenos with creamy cheese and a cool avocado dip exceeded my expectations! I found that soaking the peppers in water before filling them kept them from becoming too spicy while enhancing their flavor.

Each bite is a burst of flavors and textures that truly amazes everyone who tries them. I love serving them fresh from the oven, topped with a sprinkle of cilantro for that extra touch. They are sure to become your go-to dish for any occasion!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors
Quick to prepare and cook, perfect for any gathering
Fresh avocado cream elevates the dish to new heights

      

Perfecting the Poppers

When preparing your jalapenos, it’s crucial to handle them with care. The seeds and membranes hold most of the heat, so thoroughly removing them is key to controlling spiciness. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider soaking the halved jalapenos in cold water after seeding, which can help temper the heat even further. Just ensure they are drained well before stuffing to prevent excess moisture from affecting the filling's texture.

To achieve that perfect popcrispiness, use fresh breadcrumbs for coating. They provide a lighter and fluffier texture than store-bought varieties. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, substitute with crushed cornflakes or almond flour. Remember, a light drizzle of oil before baking not only helps the breadcrumbs to crisp but also enhances the overall flavor.

Avocado Cream: A Game Changer

The avocado cream is more than just a dip; it perfectly balances the richness of the jalapeno poppers. For a creamier texture, choose a ripe avocado that yields slightly when pressed. If you’re short on time, you can opt for store-bought guacamole as a quick substitute, but I recommend making the homemade version for optimal freshness and flavor control.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding crushed garlic or fresh herbs like cilantro to the avocado cream. This not only brightens the dip but elevates the entire dish with additional layers of flavor. Lime juice is crucial for not only adding acidity but also preventing the avocado from browning; don’t skip this step.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious batch of Jalapeno Poppers with Avocado Cream:

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Avocado Cream

1 ripe avocado
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt to taste

Make sure to have everything you need before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jalapeno Poppers and Avocado Cream:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Soaking them in cold water for about 10 minutes helps temper the heat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Fill and Coat

Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. Dip the filled jalapenos in breadcrumbs to coat them thoroughly.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the poppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little oil, and bake for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Prepare the Avocado Cream

While the poppers are baking, blend the avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and salt until smooth for a refreshing dip.

Serve

Once the poppers are done, let them cool slightly. Serve warm with avocado cream on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Jalapeno Poppers with a delightful avocado cream!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture. Also, serve the avocado cream chilled for the best taste experience.

Make-Ahead and Storing Tips

These jalapeno poppers are incredibly versatile when it comes to make-ahead prep. You can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapenos a day in advance. After stuffing, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you’ve got leftovers, store the baked poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may lead to a soggy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve these jalapeno poppers as part of a larger appetizer platter alongside tortilla chips, salsa, and guacamole for a fantastic game day spread. They also make a great addition to a backyard barbecue, paired with grilled meats and fresh salads. For a unique twist, consider experimenting with different cheese blends in the filling, like pepper jack for an extra kick.

For those who want to reduce calories, you can air-fry the poppers for a healthier alternative. Air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes, checking for a golden color. This method still yields crispy poppers without excess oil, and the taste remains delightful and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon from the recipe and replace the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The heat level can vary depending on the jalapenos you use. Soaking them in water before filling helps reduce the spiciness.

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

→ What can I serve with the poppers?

These jalapeno poppers pair well with various dips, salsas, or even just some sour cream on the side.