Sourdough Discard Jalapeño Popper Bites

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Thank you so much for stopping by — I always get a little giddy when I have a new recipe that turns everyday ingredients into something unforgettable. These Sourdough Discard Jalapeño Popper Bites are exactly that: a little spicy, a little creamy, and wrapped in a golden, tangy dough that makes them impossible to stop at just one.

If you’re looking for a unique way to use your sourdough discard that doesn’t involve pancakes or crackers, this savory, spicy snack is your new obsession. Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or just a Wednesday night craving, these poppers bring big flavor in a bite-sized package.

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What Are Sourdough Discard Jalapeño Popper Bites?

These popper bites are a mash-up of classic jalapeño poppers and homemade dough pockets — like little stuffed hand pies with a kick. Cream cheese, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon (if you’re into it) get stuffed inside jalapeños, then wrapped in a soft, pillowy sourdough discard dough. The whole thing is baked until golden and topped with everything bagel seasoning for that final burst of crunch and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Appetizer: These are the hit of any party or get-together.

  • Creative Discard Use: Way more exciting than another loaf of bread!

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep and freeze ahead of time for last-minute cravings.

  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level based on your jalapeños and cheese choices.

  • Fun and Satisfying: Wrapping the jalapeños is surprisingly therapeutic — and super fun.

What Do These Popper Bites Taste Like?

They’re like the best jalapeño popper you’ve ever had — creamy, tangy, and cheesy with a subtle kick — but with the bonus of a soft, slightly tangy sourdough crust that bakes up golden and tender. The everything bagel seasoning gives you that satisfying crunch and a salty-savory finish. Basically: creamy inside, spicy center, bready outside. Heavenly!

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Uses up sourdough discard in a way that’s far from boring.

  • Bakes instead of fries for a healthier popper experience.

  • Satisfies that snacky craving with real ingredients and big flavor.

  • Perfect for freezing and baking off as needed.

  • Great party food — these disappear fast!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 6–8 jalapeños, halved and seeds removed

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • Pinch of salt

  • ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional)

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed is fine)

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)

  • ½ tsp baking powder

  • ¼ tsp baking soda

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For Finishing:

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

  • Everything bagel seasoning or coarse salt

Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls

  • Spoon or piping bag (for filling)

  • Baking sheet

  • Parchment paper

  • Pastry brush (for egg wash)

  • Knife and cutting board

  • Gloves (optional, for handling jalapeños)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

  • Cheese Options: Try smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese blended with blue cheese for a bold twist.

  • No Bacon? Totally optional. Sub in chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a veggie version.

  • Don’t Like Too Much Heat? Use baby bell peppers instead of jalapeños — all the flavor, none of the fire.

  • Sourdough Alternative: If you don’t have discard, mix equal parts plain yogurt and flour as a dough base (though the flavor won’t be as complex).

How to Make Sourdough Discard Jalapeño Popper Bites

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prep Your Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and bacon (if using) until smooth.

  3. Stuff the Jalapeños: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Set aside.

  4. Make the Dough: In another bowl, mix the sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and olive oil until a soft dough forms. Add a little extra flour if the dough feels too sticky.

  5. Wrap the Bites: Divide dough into small pieces. Flatten each one into a circle (about 2.5–3 inches wide) and wrap it around a stuffed jalapeño half, pressing the edges to seal.

  6. Egg Wash & Topping: Place the wrapped bites seam-side down on your baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or coarse salt.

  7. Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the dough is golden and slightly crisp on the edges.

  8. Cool & Serve: Let them cool just enough to handle (the filling will be hot!) and serve warm. They’re absolutely addictive.

What to Serve with Jalapeño Popper Bites

  • Cool ranch or sour cream dip

  • Fresh-cut veggies or a crunchy slaw

  • A pitcher of margaritas or chilled beer

  • Classic game-day favorites like nachos or wings

  • As a side to chili, burgers, or grilled chicken

Tips for Success

  • Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid spicy fingers.

  • Seal edges well to keep the cheesy filling from leaking during baking.

  • Don’t overstuff the jalapeños — a little filling goes a long way.

  • Let them cool slightly before eating so you don’t burn your tongue (yep, I’ve done it).

  • Double the batch and freeze half — they reheat beautifully in a toaster oven or air fryer!

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.

  • Freezer: Freeze unbaked bites on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes to the bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pickled jalapeños?

Fresh is best for this recipe — pickled jalapeños will be too soft and may leak during baking.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the bacon or sub in something plant-based for that smoky flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes — you can make the dough up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to use.

Do these get super spicy?

It depends on your jalapeños! Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat significantly. You can always taste-test one batch and adjust next time.

Conclusion

These Sourdough Discard Jalapeño Popper Bites are the kind of snack that makes people hover near the tray. Whether you’re looking for a party pleaser or just a bold way to use your sourdough discard, these spicy little bites deliver every time. Cheesy, tangy, soft on the outside, and packed with flavor on the inside — they’re everything a homemade appetizer should be.

Hungry for more sourdough discard magic? Try these recipes next:

Share the Love

Made these poppers? I’d love to hear how they turned out. Leave a review, pin it on Pinterest, or tag your snack creations so we can all admire your kitchen wins.

Nutritional Information (per bite, approx.)

  • Calories: 130

  • Fat: 9g

  • Carbs: 7g

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fiber: 0.5g

  • Sugar: 1g

Snack well, waste less, and keep the flavor coming — your sourdough discard is just getting started!