Sweet-Heat Jalapeno Poppers

Ingredients

• 12 jalapeno peppers
• 1 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Cut jalapenos in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and membranes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Spoon cheese mixture into jalapeno halves.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed crackers with olive oil. Sprinkle over cheese mixture.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together the honey, hot sauce, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir until bubbly, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove jalapeno poppers from oven and brush with the honey mixture. Return to oven for another 5 minutes.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Jalapeno poppers are believed to have originated in Texas in the 1970s.
• The jalapeno pepper is a type of chili pepper that is native to Mexico.
• Jalapeno poppers can be fried, baked, or grilled.