Spicy Pineapple Salsa Poppers

Name: Spicy Pineapple Salsa Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I love serving Spicy Pineapple Salsa Poppers at gatherings; they're always a hit! These vibrant bites combine the sweetness of pineapple with a spicy kick, making them the perfect appetizer. I enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures and how easy they are to prepare. A little bit of cream cheese balances out the heat, creating a tantalizing treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a fun snack, these poppers are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:13:28.740Z

Creating these Spicy Pineapple Salsa Poppers came from my love of combining unexpected flavors. I was inspired after tasting a similar dish at a local food festival. The balance of spicy jalapeños with sweet, juicy pineapples works wonders in this recipe, and I thought, why not make it an easy-to-eat popper?

I've found that using fresh ingredients really elevates the flavor, especially when it comes to the salsa. Although canned pineapple works in a pinch, freshly diced pineapple brings a vibrant sweetness that you won’t want to miss. Trust me; this method ensures each bite bursts with flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet and spicy combination that excites your taste buds
Easy to prepare with fresh ingredients
Versatile for various occasions, from casual snacking to parties

      

Secrets to Perfect Poppers

For optimal flavor, choose jalapeño peppers that are firm with smooth skin. This indicates freshness and ensures a crisp texture. If you prefer milder poppers, remove all the seeds and the white membranes, as they hold the majority of the heat. Alternatively, if you crave extra spice, consider using Serrano peppers instead of jalapeños for a more pronounced kick.

When preparing your pineapple for the salsa, opt for ripe, juicy pineapple for a balance of sweetness and acidity. For a tropical twist, you can substitute mango for half of the pineapple. This could add an interesting layer of flavor while maintaining the sweetness needed to counterbalance the jalapeño's heat.

Assembling and Baking Tips

When spreading the cream cheese mixture into the jalapeño halves, use a small offset spatula or a butter knife for even distribution. A generous amount of filling helps keep the peppers stable and prevents them from falling apart during baking. Make sure to pile the pineapple salsa on top in a way that it can seep into the cream cheese, which enhances the flavor fusion.

Preheat your oven thoroughly to 375°F (190°C) before placing the baking sheet inside. This crucial step ensures the jalapeños cook evenly and become tender without losing their vibrant color. Bake them until they are soft and visually appealing; you want them to have a slightly charred edge—this adds depth to the overall flavor.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Salsa

In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with salt and black pepper until smooth.

Assemble the Poppers

Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture in each jalapeño half. Top with a generous spoonful of the pineapple salsa.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until the jalapeños are tender.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapeños to the salsa or sprinkling some chili flakes over the finished poppers before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Pineapple Salsa Poppers are perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble the poppers a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is an option, but it can make the jalapeños a bit soggy, so use the oven whenever possible for the best texture.

Variations to Consider

Feel free to customize this recipe! Adding diced bell peppers or avocado to the salsa can provide additional flavors and textures. If you're looking for a smokier profile, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or using roasted jalapeños. This small tweak elevates the poppers to a whole new level.

For a more decadent version, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the assembled poppers before baking them. A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar provides extra creaminess and flavor. If your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily make these poppers gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients, including spices and cheese, are certified gluten-free.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to try bell peppers or banana peppers for a milder option.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and salsa ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The heat level largely depends on the jalapeños used; for milder poppers, choose larger jalapeños and remove all seeds.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses cream cheese and vegetables, making it a fantastic option for veggie lovers.