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Spicy Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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