Tasty Finger Food Mini Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls are a fun and spicy little snack packed with creamy cheese, a touch of heat from the jalapenos, and the satisfying crunch of crispy egg roll wrappers. These bite-sized treats are perfect for anyone who loves a bit of spice balanced with cheesy goodness and a crispy outside. They’re great for parties, game days, or just whenever you want a tasty finger food to munch on.
I love making these mini egg rolls because they’re not only delicious but also super easy to share. I usually whip up a big batch, and they disappear fast! One helpful tip I’ve found is to make sure the filling isn’t too wet so the wrappers stay nice and crispy when fried or baked. These little poppers are a favorite around here because they bring just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the flavor.
When I serve them, I like to have a simple dipping sauce on the side, like ranch or a cool sour cream dip, which balances the spice perfectly. They’re so fun to eat, and people always ask me for the recipe. Whether you’re hanging out with friends or just in need of a quick snack, these mini jalapeno popper egg rolls are a tasty choice that’s hard to beat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your filling, giving the egg rolls a creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, try using Neufchatel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring the heat and crunch. If you prefer milder rolls, use less jalapeno or swap them for poblano peppers. For extra heat, include some seeds or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty bite that pairs well with the creamy cheese. You can skip the bacon for a vegetarian version or substitute with crispy turkey bacon or smoked tempeh.
Egg Roll Wrappers: These give you that perfect crispy crunch. If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, spring roll wrappers or won ton wrappers work too, but the size and texture may vary slightly.
How Do You Wrap Egg Rolls So They Stay Crispy & Don’t Burst?
Wrapping egg rolls tightly keeps the filling from leaking and helps them crisp evenly. Here’s how I do it:
- Place filling close to one corner of the wrapper (diamond shape), leaving some space at the edges.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling first to cover it entirely.
- Fold in the side corners snugly to seal the sides.
- Roll the wrapper tightly toward the top corner.
- Use a small dab of water to seal the final edge—this acts like glue.
Make sure your filling isn’t too wet; you can drain any excess liquid or pat ingredients dry before mixing. This helps prevent soggy wrappers and bursting during frying. Give it a try, and your egg rolls will come out perfectly crispy every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining the cream cheese, cheese, jalapenos, and bacon easily.
- Sharp knife – makes chopping jalapenos and green onions quick and safe.
- Cutting board – gives you a clean space to prep your veggies and bacon.
- Deep skillet or fryer – great for frying the egg rolls evenly to a crispy golden brown.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – helps you lift egg rolls from hot oil safely and drain excess oil.
- Paper towels – handy to drain the fried egg rolls and keep them crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked chorizo – adds a spicy, smoky twist that complements the cheese well.
- Mix in diced cooked chicken for a heartier snack that’s filling and tasty.
- Add finely chopped roasted red peppers for a sweet contrast to the jalapenos’ heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy, melty filling.
Tasty Finger Food Mini Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Wraps & Cooking:
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Ranch dressing or sour cream, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and roughly 15 minutes to fry the egg rolls in batches. So, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and perfect for snack time or parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapenos, crumbled bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until blended nicely.
2. Wrap the Egg Rolls:
Place one egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing towards you, like a diamond. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the bottom corner. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in both side corners. Roll tightly toward the top corner, sealing the edge with a bit of water to keep it closed.
3. Fry and Serve:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the egg rolls in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm with ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping. Enjoy your tasty, crispy mini jalapeno popper egg rolls!
Can I Bake the Mini Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lightly brush or spray them with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
How Should I Store Leftover Egg Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wrappers soggy.
Can I Use Frozen Jalapenos for the Filling?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the filling. Excess moisture can cause soggy egg rolls or wrappers that don’t crisp properly during frying.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Roll Wrappers?
If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, won ton wrappers or spring roll wrappers work well as substitutes. Just note that spring roll wrappers are usually thinner and may require more careful handling.
