Description
Jalapeno Popper Twists are golden, flaky puff pastry twists filled with creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh jalapenos for a perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors. Easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion, these twists are a fun, shareable snack that combines bold flavors with a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Puff Pastry Sheets – 2 sheets (thawed if frozen)
- Fresh Jalapenos – 2 medium, thinly sliced (seeds removed for milder heat)
- Cream Cheese – 4 oz, softened
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup
- Bacon Bits or Cooked Bacon – 1/2 cup, chopped
- Garlic Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Egg Wash (Optional) – 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat the oven according to the puff pastry package instructions (usually around 400°F/200°C). Thaw puff pastry sheets if frozen. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and bacon bits until smooth and well mixed. Thinly slice the jalapenos, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
- Assemble the Twists: On a lightly floured surface, unfold each puff pastry sheet. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire sheet. Arrange sliced jalapenos over the cheese layer, pressing gently to adhere. Fold the pastry in half lengthwise.
- Cut and Twist: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times to form a spiral shape. Place the twists onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for puffing.
- Optional Egg Wash: Brush the twists lightly with the egg wash to give them a glossy, golden finish after baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the twists are puffed, golden, and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid over-browning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the twists to cool for a few minutes before serving to let flavors settle and ensure easier handling.
Notes
- Use cold puff pastry dough until baking for the best flaky texture.
- Adjust the jalapeno heat by removing seeds and membranes if desired.
- Cut strips evenly for uniform baking results.
- Spread the cheese filling thinly to prevent oozing during baking.
- Let twists cool before serving to improve texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze unbaked twists by freezing on a baking sheet and then transferring to a freezer bag; bake directly from frozen with added baking time.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes to keep crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: jalapeno popper twists, spicy appetizer, puff pastry snack, cheesy bacon twists, party finger food