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 egg rolls
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup jalapeños, diced; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 24 egg roll wrappers; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Speedy Kitchen Ideas

I absolutely adore these Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls. They bring the perfect blend of heat and creaminess, wrapped in a crispy shell. Each bite is a delightful contrast of textures that I can’t resist. Whether it's a party or a cozy night in, these egg rolls never fail to impress. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, which is a huge bonus. With just the right amount of spice and cheesy goodness, they are destined to become a favorite in my household.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:26:19.859Z

When I first made these Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to create such a delicious appetizer. I love the pop of flavor from the jalapeños mixed with cream cheese and cheddar, which makes for a taste explosion! I decided to add a touch of garlic powder to elevate the flavor even more, and it worked wonders.

Another tip I learned during my cooking adventures is to freeze the egg rolls for about 10 minutes before frying them. This way, they hold together better and achieve that irresistible crispy texture that I crave. Trust me, it makes all the difference in the world!

Why You'll Love These Egg Rolls
Crispy outer shell that contrasts perfectly with creamy filling
Perfect blend of spicy and cheesy goodness
Great for entertaining or as a snack
Quick and easy to prepare

The Role of Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is essential for achieving the rich, creamy filling that defines these egg rolls. Its smooth texture helps bind the ingredients together, providing a delightful contrast to the crispy wrapper. Make sure to let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes; this will make mixing much easier and ensure a uniform blend with the other ingredients.

If you're looking to add a twist, consider flavored cream cheeses, like garlic or jalapeño. These can introduce an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices and heat of the jalapeños. Just be cautious with flavored varieties as they can be stronger; adjust your additional seasonings accordingly.

Perfect Frying Techniques

Frying the egg rolls correctly is key to achieving that coveted golden-brown exterior. Use a deep skillet or a frying pan with high sides, and make sure the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test the temperature by dropping in a small piece of the filling; it should sizzle immediately. Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much, which can lead to soggy wrappers.

It's important to flip the egg rolls gently but thoroughly while frying. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from golden to dark brown quickly. Once they’re done, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain their crunch. You can keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) while you fry the remaining batches.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious egg rolls:

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup jalapeños, diced
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
24 egg roll wrappers
Oil for frying

Now that you have everything, let’s start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your mini jalapeño popper egg rolls:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed.

Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Fold the corner closest to you over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll away from you to seal. Moisten the edge with water to help it stick.

Fry the Egg Rolls

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Enjoy your homemade Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding panko breadcrumbs to the filling. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can also bake these instead of frying them, just brush the rolls lightly with oil before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls with a side of ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick. A blend of sour cream with a splash of lime juice also complements their flavors beautifully. For gatherings, consider arranging a platter with various sauces to encourage tasting and experimentation among your guests.

These egg rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen before frying. Just roll them up and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zipped plastic bag for easy storage. When you’re ready to fry, no need to thaw; just add a minute or two to the frying time.

Ingredient Variations

If jalapeños are too spicy for your taste, feel free to substitute them with milder peppers, such as bell peppers or banana peppers. Similarly, if you're not a fan of cheddar cheese, swap it out for Monterey Jack or pepper jack to introduce a little more heat without overwhelming the dish. These changes will still yield a delicious and satisfying egg roll.

For a healthier version, consider baking instead of frying. Brush the assembled egg rolls with a bit of olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. Keep in mind that while baked versions reduce oil, they won’t have the exact texture that frying provides.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg rolls and freeze them before frying. Just fry them directly from the freezer when you're ready!

→ What dipping sauce do you recommend?

A creamy ranch or spicy sriracha sauce pairs perfectly with these egg rolls.

→ Can I use other cheeses for the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.