Introduction

These Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists are a crunchy, cheesy snack with a perfect kick of heat. Wrapped in flaky puff pastry, they make a delightful appetizer or party treat that’s easy to prepare and irresistible to share.

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 less heat, reduce the number of jalapenos or substitute with mild green bell peppers.
Try adding cooked bacon bits to the cream cheese mixture for a smoky flavor.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy twist.
Make sure your puff pastry is well chilled before baking to achieve maximum flakiness.

Storage

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

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the twists and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours before baking. Just bake them fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Jalapeno Popper Twists?

Absolutely. Freeze the unbaked twists on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 118 reviews

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists are a delicious appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and diced jalapenos. These twists are baked to golden perfection and make an irresistible snack for parties or casual gatherings.

Author: Stella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12–16 twists 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pastry and Filling

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

For the 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 a milder version, reduce the amount of jalapenos or remove all the seeds and membranes.
Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before assembling for best results.
Serve with a side of ranch or sour cream dip for extra flavor.
Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: jalapeno popper, puff pastry, appetizer, spicy snack, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, baked twists