Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, and spicy with a golden, flaky crust, this Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish will be your new favorite treat. Imagine the classic flavors of a jalapeño popper wrapped up in buttery puff pastry, baked until irresistible, then finished with a flourish of extra bacon and jalapeño on top. Perfect for parties, brunches, or anytime you want a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this recipe delivers everything you love—melty cheese, smoky bacon, and just the right kick of heat—all in a handheld bite. Once you try it, you’ll be bringing Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish to every gathering!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish comes from using simple, easy-to-find ingredients that each bring their own special touch—whether it’s creaminess, crunch, or a burst of color. Every component works together to create that irresistible flavor and texture combo.
- Puff pastry sheet: Gives that signature flaky, buttery base that puffs up beautifully in the oven.
- Cream cheese (softened): The creamy, tangy foundation that makes the filling rich and luscious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, melty goodness and a pop of orange color.
- Cooked bacon bits: Delivers smoky, savory crunch with every bite—feel free to use meatless bacon for a vegetarian option.
- Jalapeños (seeded and finely chopped): Gives the danish its signature spicy kick and fresh flavor—adjust to your heat preference.
- Egg (beaten): Used for an egg wash, ensuring your pastry turns a gorgeous golden brown.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the filling with aromatic depth and classic jalapeño popper flavor.
- Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and balance to the savory profile.
- Pinch of salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Optional extra sliced jalapeños and bacon: For a decorative and flavorful finish that lets everyone know what’s inside.
How to Make Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your danishes go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked bacon bits, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and evenly combined. This is the heart of your Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish, so make sure everything is well blended for the best flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out just enough to smooth the seams and even out the edges. Then, cut the pastry into 6 equal squares—this is where your danish will take shape.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
Spoon a generous tablespoon of the filling into the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the corners of each square slightly toward the center, pressing gently to secure them in place but leaving the middle exposed. This keeps the filling peeking through for a classic danish look.
Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Toppings
Brush the exposed edges of each danish with the beaten egg. This step is key for that beautiful golden, glossy finish. If you want to take things up a notch, top each danish with extra jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of bacon bits.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your assembled danishes to the prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The cheesy filling should be bubbly and the aroma absolutely irresistible!
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Enjoy
Let your Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps the filling set and keeps you from burning your tongue. Now, all that’s left is to dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, scatter extra chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of fresh chives over your danishes. A pinch of smoked paprika or a tiny dollop of sour cream can also elevate the presentation and add another layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even a platter of crunchy veggies for dipping. They also shine alongside brunch favorites like scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the danishes in a circular pattern on a platter for a stunning appetizer display, or serve them in a bread basket lined with a colorful napkin. For parties, try making mini versions as bite-sized hors d’oeuvres—just cut the pastry smaller and reduce the bake time a bit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If layering, separate with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together and to help preserve their flaky texture.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled danishes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your danishes in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for 8–10 minutes until heated through and the pastry is crisp again. If you’re in a hurry, an air fryer works wonders for bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven crunch.
FAQs
Can I make Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the danishes a few hours ahead of time and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for parties or prepping in advance for brunch.
What if I want a milder version?
For a gentler heat, use pickled jalapeños or simply reduce the amount of fresh jalapeños in the filling. You’ll still get all the flavor but with less of a spicy kick.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes! Just swap the bacon bits for a vegetarian bacon alternative or leave them out entirely. The danish will still be deliciously cheesy and full of jalapeño flavor.
What type Appetizer, Snack
Any good-quality store-bought puff pastry will work—just be sure to thaw it according to package instructions before using. All-butter puff pastry yields the flakiest, richest results if you can find it.
Is Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish good for serving a crowd?
Definitely! The recipe is easily doubled or tripled, and the danishes hold up well at room temperature for a party spread. They’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering—just watch them disappear!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something delightfully cheesy, a little bit spicy, and wrapped in golden pastry, give Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish a try. It’s a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to share, and once you taste that first bite, you’ll want to make it again and again. Go on—invite some friends over and let the snacking begin!
Print
Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 6 danishes 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Jalapeño Popper Danish combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy, spicy filling of cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños. Perfect as a warm appetizer or snack, these bite-sized danishes are easy to make and irresistible for parties or brunch.
Ingredients
Filling
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cooked bacon bits
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of salt
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Toppings
- Extra sliced jalapeños
- Extra bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Make filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon bits, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth and well-incorporated filling.
- Prepare pastry: Gently unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to smooth any fold lines and seams, being careful not to tear it. Cut the sheet evenly into 6 squares.
- Assemble danishes: Place a heaping tablespoon of the cheese and jalapeño filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners of each square slightly toward the center over the filling, pressing gently to secure but leaving the center exposed for the filling to peek through.
- Apply egg wash and toppings: Brush the exposed edges of the folded pastry with the beaten egg to give a golden finish when baked. If desired, top with extra jalapeño slices or bacon bits for added flavor and garnish.
- Bake: Place the assembled danishes on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the danishes to cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy as a tasty party appetizer or brunch treat.
Notes
- For a milder version, use pickled jalapeños or reduce the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
- These danishes are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven or air fryer without losing their texture.
- Using meatless bacon makes this recipe suitable for vegetarians.
- Fresh jalapeños add more heat, so adjust accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 danish
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
