If you're on the hunt for a bold, addictive snack that delivers major fireworks on your taste buds, meet your new go-to: mini firecracker poppers with BBQ sauce. These spicy, cheesy, smoky bites are the definition of a party favorite—crispy on the outside, creamy and flavor-packed on the inside, and drizzled with a sticky-sweet BBQ glaze that pulls it all together. Whether you're prepping for a 4th of July cookout, a game-day spread, or just a night of finger foods, these little guys never disappoint. Plus, they land somewhere between spicy indulgence and clean eating recipes if you bake them instead of fry.
Mini Firecracker Poppers with BBQ Sauce
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American, Mexican
Mixing bowl For combining the cheesy filling. A hand mixer can speed things up.
Spoon or small spatula For stuffing the peppers.
Baking sheet or deep fryer Use a fryer for a classic crisp or bake for a lighter take.
Pastry brush or small spoon To glaze with BBQ sauce.
Tongs Helpful for turning while frying or placing on the tray if baking.
- 12 jalapeños halved lengthwise and deseeded
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon optional, but highly encouraged
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of salt
- 12 egg roll wrappers or wonton wrappers for smaller bites
- Oil for frying or baking spray
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce your favorite kind (sweet and smoky works great)
Make the filling
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, bacon (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Fill the jalapeños
Spoon the mixture into each jalapeño half, smoothing it out so it stays put.
Wrap them up
Place each filled jalapeño on an egg roll wrapper (cut wrappers in half if needed). Roll them up like little burritos—fold the sides in, then roll tightly. Seal the edge with a dab of water.
Frying
Heat oil to 350°F and fry the poppers in batches until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Baking
Preheat oven to 400°F, place poppers on a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 15 minutes or until crispy.
Air frying
Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Finish with flavor
Brush or drizzle BBQ sauce over the poppers while they're still hot for maximum absorption.
Serve hot
with extra BBQ sauce on the side!
Pairings
Mini firecracker poppers are fantastic on their own, but they really shine as part of a spread. Pair them with other fourth of july food appetizers like deviled eggs or grilled shrimp skewers. They work beautifully with crunchy coleslaw or smoky baked beans, making them one of those ideal 4th of July side dishes for a crowd. For drinks, think light beers, spiked lemonades, or even a cold pitcher of iced sweet tea. And don’t forget dessert—a chilled tray of 4th of July desserts like berry trifle or red, white, and blue popsicles is the perfect finale.
FAQs
1. What type of jalapeños should I use?
Medium to large jalapeños are best for stuffing—look for ones that are firm and have minimal curves to make wrapping easier.
2. Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Pepper jack adds an extra kick, or try mozzarella for something milder and gooey.
3. Are these spicy?
They’ve got a kick, but it’s not overpowering—especially with the cream cheese mellowing the heat. For more heat, leave a few seeds in.
4. Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Just skip the bacon or swap in some finely chopped mushrooms or black beans for that umami richness.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yep—assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge. Fry or bake right before serving.
