Introduction

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists are a delightful appetizer combining creamy cheese, a hint of garlic, and the perfect kick from fresh jalapenos, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. These twists are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, perfect for parties or snack time.

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 a milder version, reduce the jalapenos or substitute with sweet bell peppers.
Add cooked bacon bits to the filling for extra smoky flavor.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth filling.
Serve with a side of ranch dressing or spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover Jalapeno Popper Twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat 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 twists ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the twists and refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before baking. Just cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and bake as directed when ready.

What can I use if I don’t have puff pastry?

Puff pastry is ideal for its flakiness, but you can try using phyllo dough or crescent roll dough as alternatives, keeping in mind the texture and baking time may vary.

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe

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4.6 from 120 reviews

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists are a delicious appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and fresh jalapenos. These golden-brown, twisted pastries offer a perfect balance of cheesy richness and spicy kick, ideal for parties or snacks.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed

Filling

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

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 less heat, reduce the amount of jalapenos or remove all seeds and membranes completely.
Ensure puff pastry is thawed but still cold before working to prevent sticking and tearing.
Serve these twists immediately for best texture, though they can be reheated in an oven for a few minutes.
Can be made ahead: assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean edges on the pastry strips.

Keywords: jalapeno popper twists, spicy appetizer, puff pastry snacks, cheese filled twists, party appetizers