Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket are the perfect little snack that combines spicy, creamy, and cheesy with that classic golden blanket of dough around a juicy hot dog. You get a nice kick from the jalapenos, the cool cream cheese melts into every bite, and the hot dog keeps it all hearty and fun.
I love making these for casual get-togethers or game day because they’re easy to eat and always disappear fast. My tip is to not be shy with the cream cheese filling—it really balances the heat from the jalapeno and keeps everything smooth and tasty. Sometimes I even sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top before baking for an extra cheesy touch.
These are great warm right out of the oven with a side of ranch or ketchup for dipping. I always like serving them with a cold drink and some good company because they just bring people together with their playful, bold flavor. If you’re looking for a snack that’s a little different but still super satisfying, give these a try—you might just find a new favorite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Puff pastry creates that flaky, golden blanket around the hot dogs. If you don’t have puff pastry, crescent roll dough is a good substitute, though it’s less flaky and more soft. Either one works well.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos provide that spicy kick. If you want milder bites, remove all seeds and membranes or use milder peppers like poblano. For extra heat, keep some seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mix.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar: This combo makes the filling creamy and flavorful. You can swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack for a milder taste or use pepper jack for an added spicy touch. Softened cream cheese spreads easily and melts well inside.
Mini Hot Dogs: Cocktail sausages work great here. You can also use regular hot dogs sliced into bite-size pieces or small sausages like bratwursts for a heartier option.
Bacon (Optional): Bacon adds smoky flavor, but you can skip it for a simpler version or use vegetarian bacon bits if you prefer.
How Do I Get Perfectly Flaky and Golden Puff Pastry?
Getting puff pastry to puff up and turn golden means keeping it cold until baking and applying an egg wash for shine.
- Keep it cold: Work quickly and keep your pastry chilled as much as possible before baking.
- Egg wash: Brush the beaten egg over the pastry just before baking to help with color and a slight crispiness.
- Baking: Bake in a hot oven (around 400°F/200°C) so the layers puff up quickly before the filling melts. Avoid opening the oven door too soon.
- Even thickness: Cut your puff pastry into equal pieces for even cooking.
- Seal edges gently: Pinch edges firmly but don’t squash the layers; this keeps the flaky texture inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper – I prefer this to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – helps you cut the puff pastry into even squares.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapenos.
- Pastry brush – to evenly coat the tops with beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Measuring spoons – for precise spreading of the cheese mixture and egg wash.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon or shredded cooked chicken in the cheese mixture for extra protein.
- Swap jalapenos with banana peppers or poblanos for different spice levels or flavors.
- Add a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika into the cheese mix for extra smoky flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan or mozzarella before baking for extra cheesy crust.
Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package frozen puff pastry sheets (thawed)
- 10 cocktail or mini hot dogs
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2-3 fresh jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to bake. You’ll want to have the puff pastry thawed ahead of time (usually 30-40 minutes at room temperature). Overall, you can have these spicy, melty snacks ready in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Jalapeno Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapenos, and crumbled bacon if you’re using it. Stir together until everything is mixed well and creamy.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into about 10 equal squares or rectangles – one for each mini hot dog.
4. Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket:
Spread about a teaspoon of the cheese and jalapeno mixture evenly over each puff pastry piece. Place a mini hot dog on top of the filling on each square.
Carefully roll the pastry around the hot dog, starting from one corner and rolling toward the opposite one. Pinch the edges to seal, but be gentle so the pastry layers stay flaky.
5. Egg Wash and Bake:
Place each wrapped hot dog seam side down on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg — this helps them bake up golden and shiny.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry turns golden brown and is fully cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the pigs in a blanket cool for a couple of minutes after baking. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro if you’d like. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, ketchup, or spicy mustard.
Can I Use Crescent Roll Dough Instead of Puff Pastry?
Yes! Crescent roll dough works well as a substitute, though it will be less flaky and more soft. Just follow the same steps for filling and rolling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep the pastry crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pigs in a blanket and refrigerate them uncooked for a few hours or overnight. When ready, brush with egg wash and bake as usual.
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
You can reduce the heat by removing all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos or swap them out for milder peppers like banana peppers or green bell peppers.
