Delicious jalapeno popper twists

These jalapeno popper twists are a fantastic appetizer that combines creamy cheese with a spicy kick wrapped in flaky puff pastry. They make a perfect snack for parties or a flavorful treat when you want something savory and satisfying without much fuss.

I first made these for a casual game night, and they disappeared so fast my friends all asked for the recipe. Now they are my go-to for easy crowd-pleasers.

Ingredients

• One sheet frozen puff pastry: thawed for that golden, flaky crust
• 225 grams cream cheese: softened to blend smoothly with the filling
• 100 grams shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack: for a rich, melty texture and sharp flavor
• 60 grams sliced jalapenos: fresh or pickled, adding the perfect amount of heat & fresh gives a brighter flavor, pickled adds tang
• One teaspoon garlic powder: to enhance depth without overpowering
• One large egg: beaten for brushing, helping the twists brown beautifully in the oven
• Dipping sauces: such as ranch, sriracha mayo, or honey mustard for extra flavor when serving

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

(Prep and mix the filling) Combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, sliced jalapenos, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and ingredients are fully incorporated for an even blend throughout the twists.

Prepare the Pastry:

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is about six millimeters thick. This thickness ensures a delicate but sturdy shell.

Cut and Fill:

Cut the rolled pastry into strips roughly five centimeters wide for manageable twist sizes. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling onto one half of each strip, being careful not to overfill to allow for easy folding and twisting.

Twist and Shape:

Fold each pastry strip over the filling to enclose it. Then gently twist the strip into a spiral shape, which creates a beautiful textured look and allows steam to escape as they bake.

Arrange and Brush:

Lay the twists on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced evenly. Brush each twist with the beaten egg to encourage an even golden brown color as they bake.

Bake and Cool:

Place the baking sheet in an oven preheated to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool just enough to handle before serving.

I remember making these for my family’s weekend get-together. The kids loved the cheesy swirls, and the adults appreciated the little kick from the jalapenos making them a hit across all ages.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the sharp cheddar for pepper jack if you want more spice or mozzarella for a milder, stretchier cheese. If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds from the jalapenos or substitute with roasted sweet peppers. Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangier filling and lighter texture. You can also experiment with adding finely chopped cooked bacon or herbs like chives into the filling for extra complexity.

Storage Tips

Store leftover twists in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to maintain crispiness. To freeze, arrange unbaked twists on a tray and freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen adding 5 to 10 minutes as needed without thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these twists with a variety of dipping sauces to suit different tastes. Ranch is classic, sriracha mayo adds creamy heat, and honey mustard brings a touch of sweetness to balance the spice. They also pair beautifully with fresh salads or alongside soups as a snack or appetizer.

These twists are easy to make and always impress at parties with their perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use fresh and pickled jalapenos interchangeably?

Yes, both fresh and pickled jalapenos work well. Fresh ones offer a brighter heat, while pickled add a tangy flavor.

→ What type of cheese works best for the filling?

Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack deliver a nice balance of sharpness and creaminess, blending well with cream cheese.

→ How should I prepare the puff pastry before filling?

Thaw the puff pastry sheet completely and roll it out to about 6 mm thickness for easy twisting and baking.

→ What is the purpose of the egg wash?

Beaten egg brushed on the twists helps achieve a golden-brown color and a glossy finish during baking.

→ Which dipping sauces complement these twists?

Ranch, sriracha mayo, and honey mustard are popular options that enhance the flavors of the twists.