Save
Blueberry Brie Jalapeño Poppers turn the classic appetizer into something showstopping and bursting with flavor. Each popper balances savory creamy brie with the gentle heat of jalapeños and a final drizzle of blueberry preserves for unexpected sweetness. The salty meat wrap crisps beautifully in the oven or air fryer, holding everything together for a melty and bright bite that feels both special and easy.
I started making these for book club nights and every guest asked for the recipe by the end of the evening. Now they are my go to for potlucks and anytime I want something crowd pleasing that feels gourmet.
Ingredients
- Fresh jalapeños: Pick ones that are roughly the same size for even cooking and handle carefully if you like mild poppers remove all the seeds and inner membrane
- Brie cheese: Creamy and rich brie melts beautifully Choose one with a soft rind and firm interior so it slices easily
- Deli ham, prosciutto or bacon: Any thinly sliced salty meat works well Ham is milder prosciutto gives an elegant air bacon brings smoky depth
- Blueberry preserves: Look for preserves with real fruit pieces for best flavor The natural tangy sweetness makes all the difference
- Optional black pepper or flaky salt: Use for finishing to enhance the flavor One or two grinds of fresh black pepper will balance the sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Jalapeños:
- Slice fresh jalapeños in half lengthwise Use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and membrane If you prefer extra heat leave some membrane behind Wear gloves to avoid irritation
- Fill with Brie:
- Cut brie into twelve small even pieces Place one chunk snugly inside each jalapeño half Press gently so the brie fills the space but does not overflow
- Wrap with Meat:
- Take a slice of ham prosciutto or bacon and wrap firmly around each filled jalapeño Tuck the ends under or secure with a toothpick if needed for a tidy bundle
- Bake or Air Fry:
- Arrange poppers on a lined baking sheet or air fryer tray Leave space so the heat circulates evenly Bake or air fry at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen to twenty minutes Watch for melted cheese and crisped meat
- Warm the Preserves:
- Gently heat blueberry preserves in a small saucepan or microwave for a few seconds Stir until smooth and glossy so it drizzles easily
- Finish and Serve:
- Spoon warm preserves over the top of each popper Add a pinch of black pepper or flaky salt Serve immediately while the centers are soft and gooey for the best experience
Save
My favorite part is the brie With its buttery richness it perfectly counters the pop of acid from the blueberries One of the first times I made these I swapped in raspberry preserves and my youngest declared it their new birthday treat
Storage Tips
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep for up to two days For best results reheat gently in a low oven or air fryer so the cheese softens without spilling over Cold poppers still taste good but lose crispness
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have brie try creamy goat cheese or classic cream cheese which hold up well to heat For a sweeter bite thin slices of apple or pear under the cheese work beautifully For a lighter option turkey bacon crisps nicely and keeps the saltiness
Save
Serving Suggestions
Serve these poppers as a starter for dinner parties or alongside other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms or crostini I love to pair them with a refreshing sparkling sangria or a bold sauvignon blanc Plating on a wooden board with extra blueberries makes for a stunning display
A Twist on a Classic
Jalapeño poppers are an American bar snack favorite but this version finds inspiration in the French pairing of cheese and fruit preserves Bacon and brie always feel celebratory to me and the sweet blueberry touch always surprises guests in the best way
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other preserves instead of blueberry?
Yes, try fig, raspberry, or apricot preserves for a different fruity nuance to complement the brie and jalapeño.
- → What meat wrapping works best?
Deli ham, prosciutto, or bacon add a flavorful salty note. Choose your favorite, or opt for turkey bacon for a lighter touch.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Assemble the poppers in advance and bake just before serving for the freshest texture and warm, gooey centers.
- → Is there a substitute for brie cheese?
Goat cheese or cream cheese work well, offering a tangier or creamier taste while maintaining a smooth texture when melted.
- → How do I control the jalapeño’s heat?
Remove all seeds and membranes for milder heat, or leave some intact for extra spiciness. Choose similarly sized jalapeños for even cooking.
- → Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air frying produces crisp results; just monitor closely to prevent over-browning of the wraps.