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Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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