Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Rolls
There’s something truly magical about the combination of warm, fluffy sourdough and the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers. These Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Rolls bring together the tangy goodness of sourdough, the fiery kick of jalapeños, and the creamy, cheesy richness of a classic popper—all wrapped in a soft, golden roll.
If you love a little spice, a lot of cheese, and the irresistible crunch of bacon, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Rolls
Perfectly Soft & Cheesy: The dough bakes up tender and fluffy, while the gooey cheese filling melts into every bite.
A Touch of Heat: Jalapeños bring just the right amount of spice. Keep the seeds for extra heat or remove them for a milder flavor.
Crispy Bacon Goodness: The smoky, salty crunch of bacon makes these rolls absolutely irresistible.
Parmesan Crust Perfection: A buttery, cheesy topping gives them a crisp, golden finish.
Sourdough Magic: The tangy depth of sourdough adds an artisan touch to these fun and flavorful rolls.
These rolls are perfect for game day, brunch, or as a side dish to your favorite meal. Serve them with ranch or spicy honey for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2–3 jalapeños, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Topping
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm milk, melted butter, honey, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, and garlic powder in a bowl until smooth.
Shape the Rolls
- Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
- Flatten each piece into a circle and spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center.
- Pinch the edges to seal, then roll into a smooth ball.
Second Rise
Place the filled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours until they look puffy.
Bake to Golden Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle them with Parmesan and smoked paprika.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and delicious.
Serve & Enjoy
Let the rolls cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm for the ultimate cheesy, spicy bite.
Pro Tip: These rolls pair beautifully with ranch dressing or a drizzle of spicy honey.
What to Serve with Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Rolls
Wondering how to make a meal out of these incredible rolls? Try pairing them with:
- Grilled Steak – The bold flavors complement smoky meats beautifully.
- Chili or Soup – Dunk these into a hearty bowl of chili or creamy tomato soup.
- Fresh Green Salad – A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the rolls.
Tips for the Best Jalapeño Popper Rolls
- Use an active sourdough starter – This ensures the best rise and flavor. If your starter isn’t bubbly, feed it a few hours before making the dough.
- Adjust the spice level – Want more heat? Leave the jalapeño seeds in. Prefer it mild? Use just one jalapeño.
- Seal the rolls tightly – Make sure the edges are pinched well so the filling stays inside while baking.
- Don’t skip the second rise – This makes the rolls extra light and fluffy.
How to Store & Reheat
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Freezing: You can freeze these rolls. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes. You can prep the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Shape the rolls in the morning and let them do their second rise before baking.
What if I don’t have a sourdough starter?
You can substitute ½ teaspoon of instant yeast and reduce the rise time to 1–2 hours for the first rise and 30–45 minutes for the second rise.
Can I make these without bacon?
Of course. For a vegetarian version, try adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms instead.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even Gouda for different flavors.
More Delicious Recipes to Try
If you loved these rolls, you’ll definitely want to try these cheesy and comforting recipes:
- Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Bake – A cozy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with melted mozzarella and a rich, creamy sauce.
- Creamy Colby Jack Mac and Cheese – A velvety, ultra-cheesy mac and cheese that’s perfect for any comfort food lover.
- Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Chunks – Sweet, crunchy, and creamy bite-sized cheesecake pieces that are absolutely irresistible.
These recipes are all about bold flavors, comforting textures, and pure indulgence—just like these Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Rolls.
Final Thoughts
These Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Rolls are everything you love about jalapeño poppers wrapped up in a soft, tangy roll. They’re spicy, cheesy, and downright addictive—perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or anytime you need a little comfort food with a kick.