If you love snacks that bring together melty cheese, a hint of spice, and that irresistible, buttery dough hug, you’re going to adore this Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe. These little bites are the perfect game day treat or party appetizer that combine creamy jalapeño-infused cheese, juicy hot dogs, and golden crescent rolls for a flavor-packed snack everyone will rave about. The fun twist of pickled jalapeños brings just the right zing, making this a vibrant upgrade on a classic favorite that’s sure to become your go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple but every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating those rich, creamy fillings and perfectly baked blankets. From the smooth cream cheese to the cheddar’s sharp tang and the crescent dough that crisps up just right, these ingredients come together beautifully for flavor, texture, and color.
- Cream cheese, 8 ounces: Softened for easy mixing and a smooth, creamy base that melts perfectly inside.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup: Adds a sharp, gooey texture that blends so well with cream cheese.
- Chopped pickled jalapeños, 1/4 cup: Provides a flavorful, tangy kick that wakes up each bite.
- Hot dogs or mini sausages, 8 ounces: The classic protein base that pairs so naturally with cheese and dough.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough, 8 ounces: Creates that fluffy yet crispy blanket wrapping each savory morsel.
- Cooking spray or parchment paper: Essential for easy baking and clean-up without sticking.
- Optional smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon: For a subtle smoky note and a beautiful pop of color on top.
- Optional fresh cilantro: Brightens things up visually and adds a fresh herbal touch for garnish.
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
First things first, get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray. This is key to ensuring your pigs in a blanket slide off easily after baking without any sticking or mess.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and chopped pickled jalapeños until smooth and creamy. This is the heart of the flavor, a luscious and spicy filling that brings life to every bite. Adjust the jalapeño amount if you want a milder or hotter kick—making it just right for your taste buds.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Unroll the refrigerated crescent dough onto a clean surface. Separate it by gently pulling apart along the perforations until you have individual triangles ready for filling. This dough is wonderfully flaky and buttery, giving that classic golden crust.
Step 4: Add Filling to Each Triangle
Take one hot dog or mini sausage and place it at the wide end of a crescent triangle. Spoon a generous amount of the jalapeño cream cheese mixture right beside the hot dog. This ensures every bite includes creamy, spicy goodness.
Step 5: Roll the Pigs in a Blanket
Starting from the wide end, carefully roll the dough tightly around the hot dog and filling, moving toward the pointed end of the triangle. Secure the dough edges gently so it doesn’t unwrap during baking. Place each wrapped piece seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Add Optional Garnish and Bake
If you want to add a little extra flavor and a dash of color, sprinkle smoked paprika over the tops of the wrapped pigs in a blanket. Then pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the dough is beautifully golden and puffed up, sealing in all the cheesy goodness inside.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Garnish
Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes—it helps the filling set just enough so it doesn’t spill out when you bite in. For a fresh pop of color and brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Now you’re ready to dive into warm, cheesy, spicy heaven.
How to Serve Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing takes these delicious bites to the next level. Fresh cilantro adds a pretty burst of green and a subtle herbal flavor that balances the creamy, spicy cheese. If you love a little smoky flair, a dusting of smoked paprika before baking or right before serving can elevate the look and add complexity to the taste.
Side Dishes
You can keep it simple or dress it up—these Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket recipe pairs beautifully with classic dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a tangy BBQ sauce. For a fuller snack spread, add crunchy veggies like celery sticks or a fresh salad to offer some crisp, refreshing contrast that keeps things balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Arrange these golden pockets in a circle around a ramekin of dipping sauce at the center for a fun sharing platter. Or thread mini forks through each one and serve them as mini skewers at your next party. You can also serve alongside a colorful bowl of guacamole or pico de gallo for an extra Tex-Mex flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any left, store the Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for 2–3 days, making for an easy ready-to-eat snack or quick lunch option the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these delightful treats before baking by rolling and assembling them, then placing them on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crescent dough is again crisp. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that perfect flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use regular jalapeños instead of pickled ones?
Absolutely! Fresh jalapeños add a sharper, more vibrant heat, but you might want to sauté them slightly to reduce some of the raw edge. Pickled jalapeños give a tangier, milder flavor that melts into the cheese beautifully.
What can I substitute if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
Puff pastry is a fantastic alternative that provides a similar flaky texture. You can also use biscuit dough, although it will yield a denser, breadier blanket. Just be sure to roll tightly wrapped around the filling so it holds together well during baking.
Can I make this recipe with vegetarian sausages?
Definitely! Vegetarian or vegan sausages work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to choose a variety you enjoy and use plant-based cream cheese and cheddar if you want to keep it fully vegan.
Is there a way to make these less spicy?
Yes, reduce the amount of jalapeños or omit them altogether if you prefer mild flavors. You can also swap with milder peppers or use just a pinch of sweet paprika for color and subtle taste without the heat.
How should I store leftovers to keep them from getting soggy?
Keeping leftovers in an airtight container lined with paper towels will help absorb any excess moisture. Reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to bring back crispness in the dough.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a snack recipe that packs bold flavors, is quick to whip up, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, this Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe is a winner. The combination of spicy jalapeño cream cheese and melty cheddar wrapped in buttery dough creates a savory bite you won’t forget. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your new go-to for gatherings or anytime you want a tasty treat with a little kick!
Print
Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket are a spicy and creamy twist on the classic appetizer. Hot dogs wrapped in buttery crescent roll dough are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapeños, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a party snack or game day treat, these finger foods combine spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeños (adjust to taste)
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounces) hot dogs (or mini sausages)
- 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Additional
- Cooking spray or parchment paper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for garnish
- Optional: Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Jalapeño Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped pickled jalapeños. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are fully blended into a creamy mixture.
- Prepare Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and separate it into individual triangles along the perforations.
- Assemble Pigs in a Blanket: Take one hot dog and spread a spoonful of the jalapeño cream cheese mixture at the wider end of a crescent triangle.
- Roll Dough Around Hot Dog: Starting at the wide end, roll the dough tightly around the hot dog, covering it completely. Place the wrapped hot dog seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat Process: Continue wrapping each hot dog with dough and placing them on the baking sheet until all are assembled.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle smoked paprika over the tops of the wrapped hot dogs for extra color and smoky flavor if desired.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Optionally garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for a bright, herbal note.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference.
- Mini sausages can be used as an alternative to regular hot dogs for bite-sized snacks.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to easily mix with other ingredients.
- If you prefer less spicy, use fresh mild jalapeños or substitute with green bell peppers.
- These can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.
