Introduction

These Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists are a deliciously crispy and cheesy appetizer with just the right amount of heat. Made with flaky puff pastry and a creamy jalapeno-cheese filling, they’re perfect for parties or snack time.

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 medium fresh jalapenos, seeds and membranes removed, finely diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 large egg, for egg wash

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, finely diced jalapenos, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry. Spread half of the cream cheese filling evenly over the entire surface, extending to the edges. Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, pressing gently to seal the layers together.
Step 3: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the assembled pastry lengthwise into 1-inch wide strips. Take one strip, hold one end firmly, and gently twist it several times to create a spiral. Place the twisted strip onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving 1-2 inches of space between each. Repeat with remaining strips.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the tops and sides of each twisted puff pastry strip with the egg wash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up, golden brown, and the cheese filling is hot and bubbly.
Step 5: Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the Jalapeno Popper Twists cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a milder version, use less jalapeno or substitute with diced green bell peppers.
Add crumbled cooked bacon to the filling for extra flavor.
Brush with a little extra egg wash for a shinier, more golden finish.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy kick.

Storage

Store any leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the twists ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the twists and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them well with plastic wrap and bake when ready.

Can I freeze these Jalapeno Popper Twists?

Yes, freeze the uncooked assembled twists in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe

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4.9 from 149 reviews

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists are a deliciously flaky and cheesy appetizer featuring puff pastry wrapped around a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and finely diced jalapenos. These golden-baked twists offer a perfect balance of heat and cheesy goodness, ideal for parties, snacks, or game day treats.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 twists 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry

1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed

Cheese Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 medium fresh jalapenos, seeds and membranes removed, finely diced
1 tsp garlic powder

Egg Wash

1 large egg
1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, finely diced jalapenos, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Assemble Pastry Sheets: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry. Spread half of the cream cheese filling evenly over the entire surface, extending to the edges. Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, pressing gently to seal the layers together.
Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the assembled pastry lengthwise into 1-inch wide strips. Take one strip, hold one end firmly, and gently twist it several times to create a spiral. Place the twisted strip onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving 1-2 inches of space between each. Repeat with remaining strips.
Egg Wash and Bake: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the tops and sides of each twisted puff pastry strip with the egg wash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up, golden brown, and the cheese filling is hot and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the Jalapeno Popper Twists cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Notes

For milder heat, reduce the number of jalapenos or remove all seeds and membranes.
You can substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
Make sure puff pastry is thoroughly thawed but still cold for easier handling.
Serve these twists fresh and warm for best texture and flavor; they can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.
These twists freeze well before baking; wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Keywords: jalapeno popper twists, puff pastry appetizer, cheesy jalapeno snacks, spicy cheese twists, party appetizers