Jalapeño Popper Crescent Bites

Jalapeño Popper Crescent Bites are the perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors wrapped in a buttery crescent roll. These bite-sized treats are filled with cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños, making them an irresistible appetizer or party snack.

Whether you’re hosting a game day or a casual get-together, these popper-inspired bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser with their golden, cheesy goodness. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make!

Jalapeño Popper Crescent Bites

Ingredients:

1 can refrigerated crescent dough

4 oz. cream cheese, softened

3 slices bacon, cooked and diced

2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, diced

1/4 cup cheddar cheese

1/4 tsp garlic powder

Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease a cookie sheet; set aside.

Remove crescent roll dough from package but do not unroll. Cut roll of dough into 12 equal slices.

Place slices roughly 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheet. Press each slice into a shallow bowl about 2” in diameter, making sure to keep a ridge around the outer edge to hold the filling.

Combine cream cheese, bacon, jalapenos, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Divide the mixture between the 12 slices of dough – about 1 heaping teaspoon each. Press and spread the mixture onto the dough and up to the outer edge.

Optional: Place 1 small pickled jalapeno slice on the top of each piece.

Bake for 9-11 minutes, until golden brown, and serve warm.

Notes:

Crescent Dough Tip: Make sure to keep the dough chilled until you’re ready to cut and shape it. This will make it easier to handle and keep its structure better during baking.

Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, even filling. You can microwave it for 10-15 seconds if needed.

Bacon: For added crispiness, you can use thick-cut bacon or even substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.

Jalapeños: You can adjust the heat level by using more or fewer jalapeños, or opting for fresh jalapeños instead of pickled ones for a sharper bite.

Serving: These bites are best served warm right out of the oven, but they can also be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick snack.

Additions: Feel free to experiment with toppings, like adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the bites just before baking to keep the crescent dough fresh.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 12 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled ones?

Absolutely! If you prefer the flavor of fresh jalapeños, you can finely dice them and use them instead of pickled jalapeños.

Just adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.

Can I prepare these crescent bites ahead of time and bake them later?

Yes, you can assemble the crescent bites ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out.

Bake them according to the instructions when you’re ready to serve.

I’m vegetarian. Can I omit the bacon?

Of course! You can easily make a vegetarian version of these bites by omitting the bacon.

You can add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or even some cooked spinach for added flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can use your favorite cheese or whatever you have on hand.

Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella would work well in this recipe.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.

Can I freeze these crescent bites for later?

Yes, you can freeze these crescent bites after they’re baked.

Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag

. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until heated through.

However, note that freezing may affect the texture slightly.