Name: Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed); 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sliced jalapenos (fresh or pickled); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe

Jalapeno Popper Twists are a deliciously cheesy, spicy appetizer perfect for any gathering. These flaky puff pastry twists filled with cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapenos deliver a delightful combination of creamy and spicy flavors in every bite.

A woman's hand holds a twisted pastry with a golden-brown crust, filled with visible green jalapeño slices and melted cheese. Below the hand, a white plate is filled with several similar pastries, all golden and flaky with crispy edges. Around the plate are lemon slices, some eggs, and fresh green herbs, all placed on a white marbled surface that catches the warm natural light shining on the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, jalapenos, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, then cut into strips.
Step 4: Spoon the cheese and jalapeno filling onto one half of each strip, fold the strip over, press down gently, and then twist each strip to seal.
Step 5: Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet and brush them with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
Step 6: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up.

Tips & Variations

Use pickled jalapenos for a tangier flavor or fresh jalapenos for more heat.
Try adding cooked bacon bits into the filling for extra smokiness.
Brush twists with a little melted butter instead of egg wash for a softer crust.
For less spice, reduce the amount of jalapenos or remove seeds before slicing.

Storage

Store any leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of golden, twisted breadsticks with a crispy texture, being dipped into a white creamy sauce in a small white bowl. There is a woman's hand holding one breadstick, partially dipped in the sauce, while more breadsticks are placed inside a clear glass jar and around the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture, with some green herbs and halved lemons adding natural colors to the scene. The overall look is warm and inviting with a focus on the crunchy breadsticks and smooth sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions before using to ensure even rolling and proper puffing during baking.

Can I make these ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the twists and refrigerate them uncovered for up to a few hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the assembled twists on a tray, then transfer to a bag; bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.