Halloween Jalapeño Popper Mummies
Halloween Jalapeño Popper Mummies are a fun and festive appetizer that's both spicy and cheesy! These little mummies are made by wrapping jalapeño peppers stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar…
Tip: save now, cook later.Halloween Jalapeño Popper Mummies are a fun and festive appetizer that’s both spicy and cheesy! These little mummies are made by wrapping jalapeño peppers stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar in strips of flaky puff pastry, then baking them until golden and crispy. The cute mummy look is finished off with little eyes made from tiny dots of sour cream or olives, adding a spooky but friendly touch to your party spread.
I love making these popper mummies because they’re easy to put together but always impress guests with their playful look. The heat from the jalapeños balanced with the creamy cheese filling is just the right kick for a Halloween snack. I usually prepare the filling in advance so I can wrap and bake them quickly when people start arriving – it makes the whole party feel extra fun.
These mummies are great served warm right out of the oven, alongside a cool ranch dip or salsa for dipping. Kids and adults both tend to go back for seconds, so I make plenty! Every year, they add a festive vibe to the table and spark smiles – it’s like Halloween in every bite, and a tasty way to celebrate the spooky season with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: These give the dish its signature spicy kick. If you want it milder, try using mini sweet peppers or remove all seeds and ribs from the jalapeños to reduce heat.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar: Cream cheese makes the filling creamy, while sharp cheddar adds bold flavor. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and cheese substitutes.
Bacon: Adds smoky, salty flavor but is optional. For a vegetarian version, skip it or use cooked mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth.
Puff Pastry: This wraps the filling and bakes into golden, flaky “bandages.” You can use crescent roll dough for a softer, breadier texture if you prefer.
Edible Candy Eyes or Sour Cream: These make the cute mummy faces. Small dots of black olives or peppercorns also work well for the eyes.
How Do You Wrap the Jalapeños to Look Like Mummies?
The wrapping is key to the fun look—loose and uneven strips of pastry mimic mummy bandages. Here’s how to master it:
- Cut puff pastry into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide.
- Start at one end of the stuffed jalapeño and wrap strips diagonally, leaving small gaps near the top for eyes.
- Don’t wrap too tightly; a bit of space shows the cheese and jalapeño peeking out, enhancing the mummy effect.
- Brush with egg wash to help the pastry bake to a golden, crispy finish.
- After baking, place the candy eyes or dots of sour cream in the gaps to complete the look.
Wrapping loosely and leaving space near the top really brings the mummies to life. It’s fun to do while assembling, and the result is deliciously spooky!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – to hold the mummies as they bake evenly without sticking.
- Parchment paper – makes cleanup easier and prevents puff pastry from sticking.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining the cheese and spices smoothly.
- Sharp knife – for slicing jalapeños and cutting puff pastry strips cleanly.
- Pastry brush – helps you apply the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked chorizo or spicy sausage for a meatier, bold taste.
- Mix in some diced green onions or chives into the cheese filling for a fresh bite.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper inside for extra smoky heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, spicier filling.
Halloween Jalapeño Popper Mummies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peppers and Filling:
- 10 large jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Wrapping and Decorating:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Edible candy eyes or small dots of sour cream for mummy eyes
- Optional: Jalapeño slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and festive recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes from start to deliciously spooky finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your popper mummies from sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Carefully fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, making sure to fill generously but avoid spilling over the edges.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry Bands:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet slightly and cut it into thin strips about ½ inch wide. These strips will wrap around the stuffed jalapeños to look like mummy bandages.
5. Wrap the Jalapeños:
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half loosely with the puff pastry strips, leaving gaps near the top for the “eyes.” Aim for a messy, uneven wrap to mimic a mummy’s bandages.
6. Bake:
Place your wrapped jalapeños on the lined baking sheet. Brush the exposed puff pastry with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden shine during baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
7. Add the Eyes and Serve:
Once baked, quickly place two candy eyes or small dots of sour cream in the gaps near the top of each jalapeño to create the mummy’s eyes. Optionally, garnish with fresh jalapeño slices for an extra spicy kick and decoration.
Serve warm, and enjoy your cheesy, spicy, and adorable Halloween Jalapeño Popper Mummies!
Can I Make These Jalapeño Popper Mummies Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed jalapeños and wrap them with puff pastry the day before. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge overnight before using. This helps it roll out smoothly and bake evenly.
How Do I Reduce the Heat in This Recipe?
If you prefer less spice, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before stuffing. You can also substitute sweet mini peppers or poblano peppers for a milder version.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover mummies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to keep the pastry crispy.
