Never tried this before until now and it's to die for!

Baked Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls merge the comforting flavors of classic jalapeno poppers with the delightful crunch of eggrolls. This fusion dish highlights the creamy, spicy filling encased in a crispy baked exterior, making it a crowd-pleaser at parties or casual get-togethers. By baking instead of frying, this recipe offers a healthier twist, retaining all the rich flavors without the extra oil. Perfect for those keen on exploring fusion cuisine or simply aiming to impress guests with something familiar yet intriguingly different.

These eggrolls pair wonderfully with a refreshing side salad or a cooling dip like ranch dressing or sour cream to balance the heat from the jalapenos. A light coleslaw or roasted vegetables can also complement them nicely, adding to the variety of textures and flavors on your plate. For beverage pairings, consider a crisp white wine or a light beer to enhance the eating experience.

Servings: 4-6 servings

12 egg roll wrappers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
4 large jalapenos, seeded and diced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.

Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly. Use a dab of water to seal the edges. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Place the eggrolls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the eggrolls are crispy and golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these with your chosen dipping sauce or sides.

For a different flavor profile, consider using smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheddar. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add more veggies like finely chopped bell peppers or corn. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces like a spicy aioli or a sweet chili sauce to complement or contrast the heat from the jalapenos.