Great Holiday Appetizers – Baked Jalapeño Poppers

Stuffed Jalapeños Pack Flavor Without Extra Fat

Finger foods are fun, but they can really pack on the pounds, even when you just nibble. Here is a great appetizer makeover that lightens the calories, but still delivers plenty of flavor. Baked jalapeño poppers are a favorite thanks to the yummy contrast of creamy filling and crunchy coating.

By baking instead of deep-frying, you’ll cut back on hundreds of calories, but keep the crunch.

1. Start by cutting jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. For the filling, mash together cream cheese, mozzarella, cumin, mild chile powder and black pepper.
3. Then whisk egg and egg whites in a separate dish.
4. Place the flour and seasoned whole wheat breadcrumbs on separate plates.
5. Fill each pepper half with a heaping tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture. One at a time, dip into the flour, then into the egg whites, and then press into the breadcrumbs.
6. Place the peppers, filling side up, on the baking sheets coated with nonstick spray and bake in a preheated 350°F oven until the peppers are tender and the crust is golden, about 25 to 30 minutes.