Easy Vegan Jalapeño Poppers

Yield: 12 poppers
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: ~40 minutes

Ingredients

Jalapeños

• 6 fresh jalapeño peppers

• Optional: gloves (highly recommended)

Vegan Creamy Filling

• 4 oz (about 115 g) vegan cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or chives

Crispy Coating (optional but excellent)

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/3 cup unsweetened plant milk (soy or almond work best)

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs or panko (use gluten-free if needed)

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Baking or Air Frying

• Olive oil spray or 1–2 teaspoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jalapeños

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise.

3. Using a spoon, carefully remove seeds and membranes.

   • For milder poppers: remove everything.

   • For spicier poppers: leave a little membrane intact.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine:

   • Vegan cream cheese

   • Nutritional yeast

   • Lemon juice

   • Garlic

   • Salt

   • Smoked paprika

   • Green onions

2. Mix until smooth and thick. Taste and adjust seasoning.

3. Fill the Peppers

1. Spoon the mixture into each jalapeño half.

2. Smooth the tops so the filling sits slightly below the edges (this helps prevent leaking).

4. Bread the Poppers (Optional)

Skip this step if you want them creamy instead of crispy.

1. Set up three bowls:

   • Bowl 1: flour

   • Bowl 2: plant milk

   • Bowl 3: breadcrumbs mixed with onion powder, paprika, and black pepper

2. Dip each stuffed jalapeño:

   • First into flour

   • Then into plant milk

   • Finally into breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat

3. Place on the baking sheet and lightly spray or brush with oil.

5. Bake or Air Fry

Oven Method

• Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden and crisp.

• For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Air Fryer Method

• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with vegan ranch, chipotle mayo, or avocado crema.

• Sprinkle with extra chopped chives or a pinch of smoked paprika.

Tips & Variations

• Bacon-style flavor: Add 1 tablespoon vegan bacon bits to the filling.

• Extra cheesy: Mix in 2 tablespoons shredded vegan cheddar.

• Oil-free: Skip breading and bake directly.

• Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.