Fall is in the air, and that means it’s time for cozy gatherings, pumpkin-scented everything, and playful kitchen creations that bring smiles to the table. These Jalapeño Popper Mummies are everything we love about spooky-season snacking crispy, cheesy, a little spicy, and totally adorable. Wrapped in golden puff pastry and peeking out with olive eyes, they’re a hit with both kids and grown-ups.
This recipe has become a reader favorite for good reason. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and absolutely irresistible fresh from the oven. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just want a fun snack while carving pumpkins, these jalapeño popper mummies deliver big flavor in a bite-sized package.
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Jalapeño Popper Mummies
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 20 pieces
Description
These Jalapeño Popper Mummies are a spooky-season must cheesy, crispy, and just the right amount of spicy. Wrapped in golden puff pastry and topped with olive slice eyes, they’re fun, festive, and totally delicious.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
- 170 g (6 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 100 g shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 20 olive slices (for eyes)
Instructions
- Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. For extra heat, leave some membrane intact.
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth. Fill each jalapeño half with the mixture.
- Cut puff pastry into ¼ inch strips. Wrap each filled jalapeño with pastry strips, leaving a gap for the eyes.
- Place two olive slices on each mummy where the eyes go. Brush puff pastry with beaten egg for golden color.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment and arrange mummies evenly. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup.
Notes
Wear gloves when handling jalapeños. Chill the wrapped mummies before baking for cleaner shapes. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Jalapeño Popper Mummies
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these fun and flavorful Halloween bites:
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
- 170 g (6 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 100 g shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 20 olive slices (for eyes)
Note: Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold this helps with shaping and baking evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes. You can leave a little membrane for extra heat if you like it spicy.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
Step 3: Wrap Like a Mummy
Cut the puff pastry into thin strips about ¼ inch wide. Wrap each filled jalapeño with pastry strips, leaving a small gap for the “eyes.” Make sure the pastry overlaps a bit to mimic mummy bandages.
Step 4: Add Eyes and Egg Wash
Place two olive slices on each mummy where the eyes go. Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the pastry for a golden finish.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the mummies evenly. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Step 6: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving warm with your favorite dip (ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup work great).
Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Popper Mummies
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritating your skin.
- Use a small spoon or paring knife to clean the peppers neatly.
- Don’t overfill the jalapeños the filling will expand slightly in the oven.
- Chill the wrapped mummies for 10 minutes before baking for cleaner shapes.
- For a crispier result, use a fork to lightly press the pastry edges against the pepper halves.
Pair them with fall-themed snacks like these Caramel Apple Puppy Chow or Brown Sugar Pumpkin Loaf for a cozy holiday spread.
Variations to Try
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free puff pastry, available at most natural food stores. Follow the same instructions no other swaps needed.
Sweet Heat Variation
Add a small spoonful of fruit jam (like peach or fig) under the cheese filling for a sweet-and-spicy combo. Perfect alongside these Cheesecake Banana Pudding Bites.
Extra Cheesy Mummies
Add mozzarella to the cheddar blend for a gooier, stretchier filling that’s hard to resist.
Stuffed with Bacon
Mix finely chopped cooked turkey bacon into the cheese mixture for a smoky boost. Great with a side of Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins for a savory-sweet combo.
How to Store & Reheat
Storage:
Let the mummies cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave it makes the pastry soggy.
If you love prepping ahead for parties, check out this One-Pan Chicken and Chorizo for a make-ahead main that reheats beautifully.
FAQ (Jalapeño Popper Mummies)
1. Can I make Jalapeño Popper Mummies ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
2. How spicy are they?
Mild to medium. Removing seeds and membranes reduces heat. For less spice, use mini sweet peppers instead.
3. What dipping sauces go well with these?
Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, sour cream, or even a drizzle of honey mustard are great pairings.
4. Can I freeze Jalapeño Popper Mummies?
You can freeze them unbaked. Flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or just looking to snack with seasonal flair, Jalapeño Popper Mummies bring heat, crunch, and cuteness in every bite. They’re easy, festive, and full of personality just like the best fall recipes should be. For more spooky-season ideas, don’t miss our Pumpkin S’mores Cookies and Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes.