Save There's something irresistible about the combination of jalapeños and cheese that keeps us coming back for more. These Jalapeño Popper Twists capture that beloved flavor pairing in a form that's both elegant and easy to eat. Golden, flaky puff pastry wrapped around a creamy, spicy filling creates the perfect handheld treat that disappears quickly at any gathering.
Save These Jalapeño Popper Twists transform the classic bar appetizer into an elegant finger food. The combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich base, while the jalapeños add just the right amount of heat. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crispy pastry and creamy filling that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (60 g) sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- For the pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, sliced jalapeños, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Prepare the pastry
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Cut into 8 strips, each about 2 inches (5 cm) wide.
- Fill the strips
- Spoon a line of filling onto one half of each pastry strip. Fold each strip over the filling lengthwise, pressing gently to seal the edges.
- Create the twists
- Carefully twist each filled strip several times to create a spiral, then place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply egg wash
- Beat the egg and brush the tops of the twists with the egg wash for a glossy finish.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve
- Let cool slightly. Serve warm for best flavor.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Für besonders gleichmäßige Twists können Sie die gefüllten Teigstreifen an beiden Enden festhalten und in entgegengesetzte Richtungen drehen. Achten Sie darauf, dass die Füllung nicht zu nah am Rand liegt, damit sie beim Backen nicht ausläuft. Wenn der Blätterteig zu weich wird, legen Sie ihn für einige Minuten in den Kühlschrank, bevor Sie mit dem Füllen fortfahren.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Für eine fleischhaltige Version können Sie gehackten Speck zur Füllung hinzufügen. Probieren Sie verschiedene Käsesorten wie geräucherten Gouda oder Pepper Jack für ein anderes Geschmacksprofil. Wer es weniger scharf mag, kann die Jalapeños durch mildere grüne Paprika ersetzen oder einfach die Menge reduzieren. Für eine mexikanische Variation fügen Sie der Füllung etwas Kreuzkümmel und gehackten Koriander hinzu.
Serviervorschläge
Diese Jalapeño Popper Twists sind perfekt als Vorspeise oder als Teil eines Fingerfood-Buffets. Servieren Sie sie mit Ranch-Dressing oder Sriracha-Mayo zum Dippen. Sie passen hervorragend zu kaltem Bier oder einem fruchtigen Weißwein. Für ein komplettes Spieltags-Menü kombinieren Sie sie mit Chicken Wings, Nachos und einer frischen Guacamole.
Save Whether you're hosting a game day party or simply craving a savory snack, these Jalapeño Popper Twists deliver big flavor in an elegant package. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—just a few ingredients transform into an impressive appetizer that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Watch them disappear within minutes of hitting the table!
Recipe Questions
- → What is the best cheese to use in these twists?
Sharp cheddar pairs well for a bold flavor, but smoked gouda or pepper jack can add unique twists.
- → Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?
Yes, pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick and work perfectly in the filling.
- → How do I achieve the flaky texture in the pastry?
Using cold, thawed puff pastry and baking at a high temperature ensures a golden, flaky result.
- → Can these twists be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them in advance and reheat in the oven for about 5 minutes before serving.
- → What can I serve alongside for extra flavor?
Ranch dressing or sriracha mayo complement the twists nicely, adding creamy or spicy notes.