Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 jalapeo peppers, cut in half lengthwise, seeds and membranes removed
• 4 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 16 cocktail wieners, such as Hillshire Farms Lil Smokies
• 2 (8 ounce) packages crescent roll dough (8 count each)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Rinse the jalapeos to remove any remaining seeds, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and shredded Cheddar cheese until fully combined.
4. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the halved jalapeos, filling each half generously.
5. Top each stuffed jalapeo with a cocktail wiener.
6. Separate the crescent roll dough into 16 triangles, as per the package instructions.
7. Carefully wrap each cheese-filled jalapeo and sausage in a crescent roll triangle, ensuring the dough covers the filling completely.
8. Place the wrapped jalapeos on the prepared baking sheets, spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and crispy.
10. Once baked, allow the jalapeo poppers to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	196
Total Fat	14g (17% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	7g (36% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	38mg (13% Daily Value)
Sodium	281mg (12% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	13g (5% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (3% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	6g (12% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium	85mg (7% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (4% Daily Value)
Potassium	88mg (2% Daily Value)

History and Origins

The concept of pigs in a blanket, typically consisting of sausage or hot dogs wrapped in pastry, has been a popular snack in the United States for decades. The fusion of jalapeo poppers with this classic dish is a relatively modern twist, combining two beloved appetizers: spicy jalapeos stuffed with creamy cheese and savory sausages wrapped in flaky dough. The addition of jalapeos reflects the growing love for spicy foods in American cuisine, influenced by Mexican flavors and the Tex-Mex tradition. This recipe merges the comfort of pigs in a blanket with the heat and richness of jalapeo poppers, making it a popular choice for parties and gatherings.

Regional Features

Jalapeo Popper Pigs in a Blanket are a great example of the regional culinary innovation that can be found in American cuisine, particularly in the Southwest. The use of jalapeos and other spicy ingredients is prevalent in states like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, where Mexican-American fusion cuisine is celebrated. This dish plays on the regional popularity of both spicy snacks and finger foods, making it perfect for social events such as tailgates, barbecues, and casual gatherings. While the original pigs in a blanket can be found across the U.S., adding jalapeos elevates the dish with a fiery kick that appeals to those who enjoy spicy foods.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While "pigs in a blanket" traditionally refers to hot dogs or cocktail sausages wrapped in crescent dough, the addition of jalapeos and cheese makes this version significantly more flavorful and spicy. Traditional pigs in a blanket tend to have a more mild flavor profile, often relying on the sausage or hot dog for taste. In contrast, the jalapeo popper variation adds layers of richness from the cream cheese and cheddar, combined with the heat of fresh jalapeos. This not only enhances the dishs flavor but also makes it more suited for those who appreciate spicier snacks, differentiating it from the more neutral flavor of the original.

Where Its Typically Served

Jalapeo Popper Pigs in a Blanket are commonly served as appetizers at casual gatherings, especially during game days, parties, or festive events like New Years Eve. Their bite-sized nature and bold flavors make them ideal for snacking in social settings. They're also a popular choice for potlucks and picnics, offering an easy-to-eat finger food that can be prepared in advance. Due to their Tex-Mex inspiration, you may find them served at bars, casual restaurants, or food trucks that specialize in fusion cuisine. The combination of cheese, spice, and savory sausage makes them an appealing option for diverse crowds.

Fun Facts

1. The jalapeo pepper, native to Mexico, is one of the most popular chili peppers in the world and is widely used in a variety of dishes, from salsas to stuffed peppers. Its name is derived from the Mexican city of Xalapa, where it was first cultivated.

2. While pigs in a blanket are a classic American snack, the tradition of wrapping meats in dough has roots in many cultures. In some European countries, similar dishes are known as "sausage rolls" or "franks in blankets," and can be traced back to ancient cooking methods.

3. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar in this recipe is a perfect match for the heat of the jalapeos. Cream cheese is often used in jalapeo poppers because it balances out the peppers heat, making it more palatable to those who arent accustomed to overly spicy foods.

4. Jalapeo Popper Pigs in a Blanket are highly customizable. Some people choose to add bacon, use different types of sausage, or experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist. This versatility has made the dish a hit at many gatherings.

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