Applewood Smoked Jalapeño Poppers
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Applewood Smoked Jalapeño Poppers

90 min 6 servings Easy
These smoked jalapeño poppers are a step above the deep-fried version. Halved jalapeños are loaded with a cream cheese and cheddar filling, wrapped in bacon, and slow-smoked over applewood until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly. The applewood adds a subtle sweetness that complements the heat beautifully.

Instructions

1

Prep the jalapeños

Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and ribs with a small spoon. Wear gloves to avoid burning your hands.

2

Make the filling

Mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.

3

Stuff and wrap

Fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture, mounding it slightly above the pepper. Wrap each stuffed half with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.

4

Smoke

Set smoker to 250°F with applewood chips or pellets. Place poppers directly on the grate, filling side up. Smoke for 50-60 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the filling is golden and bubbly.

Pro tip: Applewood gives a mild, sweet smoke that pairs perfectly with the spicy peppers — avoid stronger woods like mesquite here.

5

Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes — the filling is extremely hot. Remove toothpicks and arrange on a platter.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange on a platter with the open sides up to show off the bubbly cheese filling. These are the first thing to vanish at any BBQ gathering.

Nutrition per serving

240

Calories

12g

Protein

20g

Fat

4g

Carbs