Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls

Name: Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 rolls
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled); 24 egg roll wrappers; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I absolutely love making Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls because they combine the spicy, creamy flavors of my favorite appetizer with the satisfying crunch of an egg roll. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or just for a fun snack at home. The creamy cheese filling, combined with the heat from the jalapeños and the crispy exterior, is truly irresistible. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients and quick prep time, they are easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:02:18.790Z

When I first made Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls, I was amazed at how quickly they were devoured! Combining traditional jalapeño popper ingredients with a crispy egg roll wrapper elevates party snacks to a whole new level. I found that using cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar and jalapeños delivers the perfect creamy texture without being overly spicy, pleasing both heat-lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.

One of my favorite tips is to ensure the egg roll wrappers are completely sealed to prevent any filling from leaking during frying. I like to use a bit of water to moisten the edges before sealing them tightly. It’s a simple step, but it makes a significant difference in achieving the perfect crunch without any mess!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy exterior that perfectly encases a creamy filling
Addictive combination of spice and cheese in every bite
Quick to prepare and cook, making them an easy party hit

The Art of Wrapping

Achieving the perfect roll for your Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls is crucial for a delightful texture and flavor. Make sure to not overfill the wrappers, as this can lead to tearing or leaks during frying. A generous 2 tablespoons of the filling is just right; any more and you risk an explosion of cheesy goodness. When sealing, pressing the edges firmly ensures they don’t open up when they hit the hot oil, which can create a messy situation.

For best results, utilize a clean, moist surface while assembling each egg roll. This not only helps when sealing but also prevents the wrappers from sticking. If you find the wrappers drying out, covering them with a damp cloth can keep them pliable. If you’re new to rolling, it may take a few tries to get it just right, but practice leads to perfection!

Frying Tips

When frying the egg rolls, maintaining an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) is key to achieving that coveted golden brown color and crispy texture. An infrared thermometer can help ensure accurate readings, or you can test with a small piece of batter; if it sizzles on contact, your oil is ready. Frying in small batches helps manage the temperature and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to soggy egg rolls.

After frying, allow the egg rolls to drain on paper towels for a minute or two. This step not only removes excess oil but also helps maintain a crispy exterior. I recommend letting them cool slightly before serving—this way, the cheese filling is creamy but not scalding hot, allowing you to enjoy every flavorful bite without burning your tongue.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Egg Rolls

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
24 egg roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the sides in, and roll upwards to seal. Use a little water on the edges to help seal.

Fry the Egg Rolls

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the egg rolls in batches, frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Once cooled slightly, serve your Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Enjoy your tasty creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some diced bacon or green onions to the cheese mixture!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to modify the classic flavor profile, consider using different types of cheese instead of cheddar. Creamy goat cheese provides a tangy twist, while pepper jack can elevate the spice level even more. For a vegan option, you could substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese blend.

For those who might not handle heat well, opt for milder peppers. Sweet bell peppers or even roasted red peppers can replace jalapeños for a sweeter, more mellow flavor. Just be mindful that these substitutions will alter the overall taste, so do a test batch if you're experimenting!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls can be prepared ahead of time, providing a great option for busy days or entertaining guests. Once assembled, you can store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This also allows the flavors to meld together, creating a richer taste when cooked.

If you have leftovers, store fried egg rolls in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat and revive their crispy texture, toss them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Freezing is also an option; lay the uncooked rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can! Brush the rolls with oil and bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the egg rolls.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these egg rolls?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for added heat.

→ Can I freeze the egg rolls?

Yes, you can freeze them before frying. Just be sure to separate them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.