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 pieces
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and diced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 24 egg roll wrappers; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

I love making Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls for gatherings because they're always a hit! The savory cream cheese filling combined with the zesty jalapeños and crispy egg roll wrapper creates a flavor explosion that my friends can't get enough of. They are delightful as an appetizer or a snack, and honestly, they disappear faster than I can make them. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe whenever I want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:18:18.775Z

When I first created these Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls, I was looking for a fun twist on the classic jalapeño popper. I used my favorite cream cheese and sharp cheddar combination, and it worked like a charm! The key is to balance the creaminess with the right amount of jalapeño heat, which makes these rolls addictive.

Each time I make them, I play around with different dipping sauces. A tangy ranch or spicy chipotle mayo elevates the experience even more. They’re perfect for parties, and trust me, watching them vanish is utterly satisfying!

Why You'll Love These Egg Rolls
Crispy and golden perfection with every bite
Decadent filling that perfectly balances spicy and creamy
Versatile appetizer that's perfect for any occasion

Mastering the Filling

The filling of these Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls is truly where the magic happens. Cream cheese acts as a rich base that provides a luscious texture. Combining it with sharp cheddar cheese not only enhances flavor but also adds a nice creaminess that melts beautifully when cooked. My tip is to ensure the cream cheese is well-softened to make mixing easier; if it's too cold, it may clump and result in an uneven filling.

When it comes to jalapeños, removing the seeds and membranes is crucial to controlling the spice level. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can also substitute with roasted red peppers or omit the jalapeños altogether for a creamy cheese filling. This flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to suit your guests' preferences while maintaining that distinctive popper essence.

Frying Techniques for Crispy Perfection

Frying the egg rolls to achieve that golden brown and crispy exterior requires some attention. Make sure your oil is heated to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the egg rolls. If the oil is too cool, the egg rolls will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy. To test the oil, drop a small piece of wrapper in; if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go.

Frying in batches is key to ensuring each egg roll has enough space to cook evenly. Crowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping them when they have golden edges. Once finished, drain them well on paper towels to keep the egg rolls crispy and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

For serving, I love to pair these egg rolls with a zesty dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy aioli, which complements the creamy filling perfectly. You can get creative by offering a couple of different dips to cater to various tastes. Also, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra pop of flavor that brightens the dish.

If you're looking to make these ahead, you can assemble the egg rolls and freeze them before frying. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer until they’re solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be fried straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for that perfect crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking.

Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and diced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Egg Rolls

24 egg roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious egg rolls.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Seal the top edge with a little water to prevent opening.

Fry the Egg Rolls

In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the egg rolls hot with your choice of dipping sauce. Enjoy the crispy, creamy deliciousness!

Make sure to not overcrowd the pan while frying to achieve perfect crispiness.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the filling for a smoky flavor.

Possible Variations

Feel free to experiment with the filling based on your preferences. For a smoky flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon or incorporating smoked cheddar cheese. This will elevate the taste and provide a delicious contrast to the creamy base and heat from the jalapeños.

You can also switch it up by including other vegetables in the filling, such as corn or bell peppers. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a sweet crunch that beautifully complements the other flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your egg rolls begin to burst while frying, it may be due to overfilling. Keep the filling amount to about 2 tablespoons per wrapper, and make sure to seal the edges tightly with water. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to create a firm outer layer that holds up during cooking.

Another common issue is egg rolls that aren’t crispy. This could happen if you’re frying in too much oil or not heating it sufficiently. Always check your oil temperature before starting and adjust as needed to maintain consistent heat throughout the frying process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake them for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

→ How can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare and assemble the egg rolls in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying.

→ What dipping sauces pair well?

Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a homemade avocado dip complement these egg rolls perfectly!

→ Can I freeze the egg rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.