Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

Name: Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos; 1 cup cashews (soaked for 4 hours); 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Chopped fresh chives; Extra buffalo sauce

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Dishes

I’m always on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that captures bold flavors without compromising on health. These Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers have become my go-to recipe, offering that spicy kick I crave while remaining completely dairy-free. With a creamy filling made from cashews and a touch of zesty buffalo sauce, these poppers pack a punch. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that’s sure to impress anyone at your next gathering, and they’re guilt-free too!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:51:30.536Z

When I first experimented with Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers, I wasn't sure if I could replicate the traditional cream cheese filling. After several tries, I discovered that soaking cashews truly transforms them into a creamy, dreamy base that perfectly complements the spice of the jalapenos. It was surprising how well this combination hit the mark!

In my trials, I also played around with the buffalo sauce ratios until I found the right balance. Adding a hint of garlic powder not only enhanced the flavors but also tied everything together beautifully. Now, I can confidently serve these poppers at gatherings, and they disappear every time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Spicy buffalo flavor packed into each popper
Creamy cashew filling that satisfies cravings
Perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun snack

      

Jalapenos: The Star of the Show

Choosing the right jalapenos is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of heat and flavor in your Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers. Look for large, firm peppers that have smooth skin and a vibrant green color. These characteristics signify freshness and will enhance the popper experience. If you prefer more heat, you can keep some or all of the seeds; just remember that this will increase the spice level significantly and may not be suitable for everyone.

When prepping the jalapenos, be cautious while handling them. It’s best to wear gloves to avoid irritating your skin or accidentally touching your face. Slice them lengthwise and use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat. If a milder flavor is desired, removing these parts is essential. For an added twist, try grilling the jalapenos before baking to infuse a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cashew filling.

Crafting the Creamy Filling

The cashew filling is what truly makes these poppers irresistible. Soaking the cashews for at least 4 hours not only softens them but also helps create that luscious, creamy texture when blended. If you’re short on time, a quick soak in hot water for 30 minutes can be a good alternative, although the texture may not be as silky smooth. This filling is packed with flavor, and the nutritional yeast adds a cheesy depth that satisfies cravings without the dairy.

If you’re looking to adjust flavors, the buffalo sauce can be tweaked to your liking. There are many brands available, with different heat levels and flavor profiles, so choose one that aligns with your taste preferences. Alternatively, you can use a homemade buffalo sauce if you want to control the heat and ingredients more closely. Adding a touch of lemon juice or vinegar will elevate the flavor profile and add a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the cashew cream.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos
1 cup cashews (soaked for 4 hours)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

For Garnish

Chopped fresh chives
Extra buffalo sauce

Make sure to adjust the spice level by picking milder or hotter jalapenos based on your preference.

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat.

Make the Filling

In a food processor, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each jalapeno half generously with the cashew filling.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce and sprinkle with chopped chives before serving.

Enjoy these poppers hot or at room temperature, and watch them disappear!

Pro Tips

Feel free to modify the filling ingredients by adding in other spices or herbs that you enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Once removed from the oven, these Buffalo Vegan Jalapeno Poppers are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be served at room temperature if you're preparing them in advance. Pair them with a creamy vegan ranch dipping sauce to cool off the spice and provide a pleasant contrast. Fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks serve as excellent accompaniments, adding crunch and freshness to the dish.

For bigger gatherings, consider turning these poppers into a part of a larger spread. They shine as part of a vegan appetizer platter alongside other finger foods such as vegan sliders, crispy zucchini fries, or colorful vegetable skewers. Not only will this elevate your presentation, but the variety will appease different palates and dietary preferences.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To store leftover poppers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the tops regain their crispness. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the poppers soggy.

If you want to prepare these poppers ahead of time, assemble them and freeze them before baking. Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen; just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This makes them a convenient option for unexpected guests or last-minute parties!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, so you're safe to go.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed jalapenos?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What's a good alternative to cashews?

If you're allergic to nuts, you can try using tofu or sunflower seeds as a base for the creamy filling.