Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1 cup vegan cream cheese; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss

I absolutely love making these Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers for game day or any casual get-together. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, dairy-free cheese filling creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavor. I enjoy experimenting with different spices to enhance the taste, and this recipe has become my favorite. It’s simple to prepare, and the poppers bake beautifully in the oven. They come out crispy and fragrant, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:58:28.129Z

When I first tried making vegan jalapeno poppers, I was surprised by how well the flavors came together. The contrast of the spicy jalapenos with creamy, vegan cheese is absolutely delightful. They were a hit at our dinner party, and I’ve made them several times since.

One tip I've learned is to soak the jalapenos in cold water for a few minutes before stuffing them. This helps to reduce their overall spiciness, making them enjoyable for everyone at the gathering. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick balanced with creamy filling
Perfect as a game day snack or appetizer
Easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser

      

Mastering the Perfect Creamy Filling

The filling for your Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that balances out the heat. Vegan cream cheese is a fantastic base due to its smooth consistency and ability to hold flavors well. Make sure it's at room temperature before mixing, as this will help you achieve a velvety mixture. If you can't find vegan cream cheese, a combination of blended silken tofu and nutritional yeast can serve as an effective substitute, providing creaminess and a cheesy character.

When mixing in the buffalo sauce, you can adjust the heat level by either adding more sauce or choosing a milder variety. For a smoky flavor, consider incorporating a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the filling. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives an interesting twist to the traditional buffalo taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor; the filling should be glossy and uniform in appearance.

Choosing the Right Jalapenos

Selecting the right jalapenos is pivotal for the poppers. Look for firm, shiny peppers that have smooth skin and a vibrant green color, indicating freshness. Size is important; large jalapenos hold more filling and are generally easier to stuff. When cutting them in half, try to maintain a steady hand to avoid splitting them, which can make stuffing more challenging. If you find that some jalapenos are spicier than others, soaking them in cold water before filling can help to mellow their heat.

For a fun variation, consider using different types of peppers, like poblanos for a milder option or even serranos for increased heat. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the type of pepper you choose; monitor them closely to achieve that golden brown and crispy exterior.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers are baked, you can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture. Microwaving can lead to sogginess, so try to avoid that method if possible.

These poppers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair them with an array of sauces such as vegan ranch, guacamole, or even a cooling yogurt dip, which can balance the heat. For an impressive presentation, serve them on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Consider offering a variety of sauces to create a mini dipping station for guests—it makes for an interactive and engaging snack experience!

Ingredients

For the Jalapeno Poppers

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
1 cup vegan cream cheese
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will help you create a delicious and flavorful dish.

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes carefully to reduce heat. Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes if you prefer a milder flavor.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine vegan cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling into each jalapeno half until well filled. Afterward, dip each stuffed pepper in breadcrumbs to coat.

Bake the Poppers

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the poppers cool for a few minutes, then serve with extra buffalo sauce or your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your spicy Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

Try varying the spiciness by using different types of hot sauce or adding herbs to the cream cheese mixture for additional flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

Beyond the basic filling and spices, there are multiple ways to elevate the flavor profile of your Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers. Adding finely chopped scallions or herbs like cilantro into the filling can introduce freshness to balance the richness. You might also consider drizzling a finishing sauce, such as a balsamic reduction, over the baked poppers for a sweet and tangy contrast that works beautifully with the spicy and creamy elements.

If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of vegan cheese to create a unique filling texture and flavor. For example, combining shredded vegan mozzarella with the cream cheese can give a wonderful stretchiness when baked and enhance the overall mouthfeel.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is inherently versatile for various dietary needs. For a nut-free option, ensure your vegan cream cheese does not contain cashews or other nuts. Additionally, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties to cater to gluten-sensitive individuals, while still maintaining that satisfying crunch you expect from a popper.

If you're looking to reduce calories, consider using less creamy filling by reducing the amount of vegan cream cheese and enhancing with more spices and herbs. You could also bake them in an air fryer for a healthier cooking method, just adjust the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes, checking for that golden crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapenos and the filling in advance, then assemble and bake them just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of vegan cream cheese?

You can substitute with mashed avocado or a mixture of silken tofu and nutritional yeast for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I adjust the heat level?

To make these less spicy, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos or opt for milder peppers like Anaheim.

→ Are they gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread crumbs, these poppers can be enjoyed by those with gluten intolerances.