Description
Jalapeno Popper Twists are a quick and easy appetizer featuring spicy jalapenos combined with creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and flaky puff pastry. Perfectly crispy and full of bold flavors, these twists make a delicious crowd-pleasing snack or party treat that can be customized to suit your spice preference or dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2–3 fresh jalapenos, finely diced, seeds removed for mild heat
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits (optional but recommended)
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Finely dice the jalapenos, removing seeds if you want to reduce spiciness. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, bacon bits, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Roll out the puff pastry: Thaw puff pastry sheets following package instructions. Lightly flour your work surface and unfold the pastry. Roll gently with a rolling pin to smooth out creases and ensure even thickness.
- Spread the cheese mixture: Spread the jalapeno and cheese filling evenly over half of the pastry sheet, leaving a half-inch border along the edges for sealing.
- Fold and cut strips: Fold the other half of the pastry sheet over the filling, pressing gently to seal edges. Slice the folded sheet into 1-inch wide strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Twist and bake: Twist each strip several times and place on a parchment-lined baking tray without overcrowding. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Notes
- Remove jalapeno seeds carefully to control heat level.
- Keep puff pastry chilled until just before baking for optimal flakiness.
- Use a sharp knife for clean, uniform cuts that bake evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the baking tray; allow space between twists for crispiness.
- Optional: Brush twists with egg wash before baking for a shiny golden finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 twists
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Jalapeno Poppers, Puff Pastry, Appetizer, Spicy Snack, Cheese Twist, Party Food
