Get ready for an appetizer that will make your guests go wild! These Bacon Wrapped Cherry Peppers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing bite that combines the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crispy in one irresistible package. Whether you're hosting a game day party, planning a cocktail evening, or simply craving a mouthwatering snack, these little flavor bombs will have everyone begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 pieces
Ingredients
- 12 cherry peppers
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash the cherry peppers thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut off the tops of the peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes using a small paring knife.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cherry pepper with the seasoned cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are filled but not overstuffed.
- Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise to create shorter strips that will easily wrap around the peppers.
- Wrap each cream cheese-filled pepper with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is snug but not too tight. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped peppers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece to allow even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown and the peppers are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the bacon wrapped cherry peppers rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving plate, remove toothpicks if used, and serve warm as an appetizer or party snack.
Tips
- • For the crispiest bacon, choose thin-cut bacon slices that will wrap easily around the peppers. • Use a piping bag or zip-lock bag with the corner cut off for neat and even cream cheese filling. • Don't overfill the peppers - this can cause the filling to leak during baking. • If your bacon doesn't want to stay in place, secure it with a toothpick before baking. • For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture. • Let the peppers rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth. • These can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking - perfect for party prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
