Looking for the perfect savory snack or appetizer to impress your guests? Look no further than Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Pretzel Rolls! Combining the comfort of homemade pretzels with the rich, creamy filling of jalapeno poppers, these rolls are the ultimate fusion of cheesy, spicy, and doughy goodness. With crispy bacon, pickled jalapenos, and a combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, each bite is a flavorful experience that’s sure to leave everyone craving more.
Why You’ll Love Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Pretzel Rolls
- Spicy & Creamy: The balance of smooth cream cheese, spicy pickled jalapenos, and savory bacon gives the filling a perfect blend of rich and spicy.
- Pretzel Perfection: The pretzel dough, soft and chewy on the inside with a golden, crispy crust, elevates the snack to the next level.
- Customizable Heat: You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapenos, making it perfect for all heat preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: These rolls not only taste amazing but also look visually stunning, making them ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prep the rolls in advance and bake them just before serving, ensuring fresh, warm rolls without any last-minute hassle.
Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Pretzel Rolls
For the Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce) package Challenge cream cheese – A rich, smooth base for the filling.
- 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Adds savory, crispy flavor that complements the cream cheese.
- 1 ½ tablespoons chopped pickled jalapenos – Gives the filling a tangy and spicy kick.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Enhances the heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully to create a creamy texture.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds sharpness and flavor to the filling.
For the Pretzel Dough:
- 2¾ cups bread flour – The base of the dough, giving it the perfect chewiness and texture.
- 1 envelope quick-rising yeast – For the perfect rise and lightness in the dough.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – Helps activate the yeast and promotes browning.
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons hot water (about 125 to 130 degrees) – Helps the dough come together and rise.
- Cornmeal – For sprinkling on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and add a slight crunch.
For Boiling & Baking:
- 8 cups water – Used for the boiling process, which gives pretzels their signature texture.
- ¼ cup baking soda – Helps the dough develop a rich golden color and chewy texture when boiled.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – Adds sweetness to the boiling water, which also helps with browning.
- 1 egg white, lightly beaten – Brushed on top of the rolls to help with browning and create a shiny finish.
- Coarse salt – For sprinkling on top for that iconic pretzel flavor.
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese – For topping the rolls with extra cheesy goodness.
- 1 fresh jalapeno – For slicing and garnishing the rolls with a spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Pretzel Rolls
1. Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped pickled jalapenos, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, Monterey Jack cheese, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together. Once well combined, shape the mixture into 12 balls (about 1 heaping tablespoon each). Place the balls on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Make the Pretzel Dough
In a food processor, combine bread flour, yeast, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Pulse to blend. Gradually add the hot water through the feed tube, just enough to form a smooth dough. Continue processing for 1 minute to knead the dough. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky.
3. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat the dough with oil. Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 30 to 40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Punch Down the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead it on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
5. Stuff the Pretzel Rolls
Flatten each piece of dough and place one of the chilled cream cheese balls in the center. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing the edges well. Place the dough balls seam-side down on a lightly floured baking sheet.
6. Score the Pretzel Rolls
Using a serrated knife, cut an “X” on the top of each dough ball. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes, or until doubled in size.
7. Boil the Pretzel Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet and sprinkle with cornmeal. In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the baking soda and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Carefully add the pretzel rolls, 4 at a time, to the boiling water, cooking for 30 seconds per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the rolls to the prepared baking sheet, placing them X-side up.
8. Brush and Top the Rolls
Brush each roll with the lightly beaten egg white, then sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Add a little of the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each roll and finish with a slice of fresh jalapeno.
9. Bake the Pretzel Rolls
Bake the rolls for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. These jalapeno popper stuffed pretzel rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with their cheesy, spicy filling and warm, chewy crust.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Dip: Serve these rolls with a creamy ranch dip or a tangy sour cream dip to enhance the flavor.
- As a Snack: They make an excellent snack for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers.
- Alongside a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the rolls.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and boiling the rolls.
How spicy are these rolls?
The level of spice in these rolls depends on the amount of jalapenos you use. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapenos to suit your preference.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to substitute the Monterey Jack or Mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Pretzel Rolls combine all the best elements of comfort food: the chewy, golden pretzel crust, the spicy and creamy jalapeno popper filling, and the savory, crispy bacon. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun party food, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can quickly whip up a batch of these delicious rolls that everyone will rave about.