S'mores-Inspired Jalapeno Poppers

Name: S'mores-Inspired Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Extra mini marshmallows for garnish; Chopped chocolate for garnish

Highlighted under: Party Table Recipes

I love experimenting with flavors, and one of my most exciting creations is these S'mores-Inspired Jalapeno Poppers. They blend the spicy kick of jalapenos with the sweetness of s'mores, creating a unique appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings. Each bite reveals a gooey marshmallow center complemented by chocolate and crushed graham crackers, balancing heat and sweetness beautifully. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a fun snack, these poppers have always turned heads and taste buds alike!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:55:34.805Z

When I first thought about creating S'mores-Inspired Jalapeno Poppers, I knew the combination had to work perfectly. I decided to play with flavors and textures, capping spicy jalapenos with rich chocolate, sweet marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. Let me tell you, the moment I took that first bite, I was hooked! The surprisingly harmonious fusion of sweet, spicy, and crunchy made them an instant favorite.

During my trial runs, I noticed that the choice of jalapenos is crucial; I recommend using medium-sized ones for the best balance of heat and sweetness. Additionally, broiling them briefly after stuffing allows the marshmallows to caramelize just right, enhancing the overall flavor and texture. Trust me, don't skip that step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors
Gooey marshmallow center that complements the jalapeno
Perfect finger food for parties and gatherings

      

Flavor Balance and Techniques

The key to achieving the perfect balance of heat and sweetness in these poppers lies in the selection of jalapenos. Look for firm, bright green peppers with smooth skin to ensure maximum freshness. The heat level can vary, so if you're concerned about spiciness, taste a small section of the jalapeno before using it. Removing the seeds and membranes can drastically reduce heat, allowing the sweetness of the marshmallows and chocolate to shine through without overwhelming your palate.

When preparing the filling, ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened to make mixing easier. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds, but watch it closely to avoid melting. Mixing until the filling is glossy not only improves the texture but also ensures that each ingredient is well incorporated, creating a cohesive filling that holds together when stuffed into the jalapenos.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the original recipe is fantastically unique, feel free to customize your poppers! Try adding other ingredients like crumbled bacon for a smoky twist or swapping out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate according to your preferences. You can even experiment with flavored cream cheese, such as a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg, to elevate the sweetness of the marshmallow filling.

These S'mores-Inspired Jalapeno Poppers are versatile in serving options. They can be enjoyed as a stand-alone appetizer or paired with a cooling dip like ranch or sour cream. For a fun presentation, serve them on a board with complementary snacks like chocolate-covered pretzels or candied nuts. The delightfully contrasting flavors will create an unforgettable tasting experience for your guests.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For Topping

Extra mini marshmallows for garnish
Chopped chocolate for garnish

Make sure to adjust the heat level by choosing jalapenos that suit your spice tolerance!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds to reduce heat, if desired.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling generously.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes until the filling is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, top with extra mini marshmallows and chopped chocolate, and broil for 1-2 minutes until the marshmallows are toasted. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serve these poppers warm to enjoy the gooey texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider mixing in some bacon bits into the filling for a savory-sweet twist.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the baked poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their texture, it's best to reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the poppers on a lined baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is gooey again. This method helps retain their crispness unlike a microwave, which can make them soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked poppers. Just prepare them through the stuffing stage, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, adjusting the time as necessary until they're bubbly and heated throughout.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your filling seems too runny or isn't holding its shape, try adding more crushed graham crackers or a touch more cream cheese to thicken it up. This will help the filling stay put in the jalapenos as they bake. Don’t be afraid to taste the mixture before stuffing it to ensure it has the right balance of flavors; you can adjust according to your preference.

When broiling the poppers for garnish, keep a close eye on them. It only takes 1-2 minutes for the marshmallows to toast and turn golden, but they can easily burn. If they start to darken too quickly, remove them from the heat immediately. Using the top rack of the oven will get the best char, but ensure they're not too close to the heating element.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and stuffing a few hours in advance. Just bake them right before serving.

→ Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or poblano peppers work well for a milder option.

→ How can I make this more chocolatey?

You can add more chocolate chips or even drizzle melted chocolate over the poppers just before serving.

→ What are some good dipping sauces?

A creamy ranch or a chocolate drizzle can enhance these poppers wonderfully.