There’s something magical about recipes that feel both comforting and exciting at the same time. Jalapeño Popper Bread does exactly that.

It’s inspired by the beloved jalapeño popper appetizer — creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and deeply satisfying. But instead of small bites, this recipe turns those flavors into a warm, sliceable loaf that’s perfect for sharing.

This bread is bold enough for parties yet cozy enough for a casual family dinner. It’s the kind of dish people gather around while it’s still hot, pulling apart slices and reaching back for more before it even cools.

It works because it combines three irresistible elements:

✔ Soft, fluffy bread
✔ Creamy melted cheese filling
✔ A gentle jalapeño heat that keeps things exciting

Whether served at a game night, holiday spread, or weekend gathering, this bread doesn’t just sit on the table — it becomes the center of attention.

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Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This bread hits the perfect balance of:

• Creamy interior
• Cheesy stretch
• Slight spice
• Golden crust
• Soft, tender crumb

It’s easy to make and looks impressive when sliced open.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 egg

Filling

• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2–3 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Topping (optional)

• Extra cheddar cheese
• Sliced jalapeños
• Melted butter for brushing

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add egg, melted butter, flour, and salt. Mix into a soft dough.
3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour until doubled.
5. Meanwhile, mix cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, and pepper.
6. Roll dough into a rectangle about 10×14 inches.
7. Spread filling evenly, leaving edges clean.
8. Roll tightly into a log and pinch seam closed.
9. Place in greased loaf pan, seam side down.
10. Cover and rise 30 minutes.
11. Brush top with melted butter and sprinkle extra cheese if desired.
12. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes until golden.
13. Cool 10 minutes before slicing.

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What Makes This Bread So Addictive

1. Cream Cheese Keeps It Moist

Instead of drying out, the bread stays rich and soft inside.

2. Jalapeños Add Flavor, Not Just Heat

They bring brightness and freshness, not overwhelming spice.

3. Cheddar Gives the Perfect Melt

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds strong savory depth.

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Serving Ideas

This bread is incredible served:

• Warm with soup
• As a party appetizer
• Alongside chili
• With grilled meats
• For brunch spreads
• As a game-day snack

It’s also amazing toasted the next day.

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Storage Tips

Room temp (sealed): 2 days
Fridge: 5 days
Freezer slices: 2 months

Reheat slices in oven for best texture.

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Variations You Can Try

Bacon Jalapeño Bread

Add crispy bacon pieces to filling.

Extra Cheesy Version

Mix mozzarella with cheddar for stretchy texture.

Mild Version

Use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh.

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