Jalapeño Popper Rolls are a delicious and spicy twist on traditional rolls, combining the flavors of jalapeño poppers with soft, fluffy bread. These rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish for any gathering!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping:

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Timing

Making Jalapeño Popper Rolls takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking, plus rising time for the dough.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
3. Spread Filling: Spread the jalapeño filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Roll Up: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
5. Cut Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

1. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
2. Brush with Butter: After the second rise, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Jalapeño Popper Rolls (per roll, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Roll
Calories	180
Protein	5g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	20g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the filling.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference. You can also add diced green chiles for more flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Jalapeño Popper Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Popper Rolls are a fun and flavorful addition to any meal or gathering. With their cheesy, spicy filling and soft, fluffy bread, these rolls are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and filling.

Can I freeze these rolls?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and let them rise before baking.