Jalapeño Popper Twists

Flaky, golden twists stuffed with creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños—crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. Perfect for snacking, parties, or a quick appetizer that’s full of bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These jalapeño popper twists are easy to make and combine all the flavors of a classic jalapeño popper in a convenient, handheld form. They are crispy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and perfect for entertaining or a fun snack at home. With just a few ingredients, you can make a savory treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet (about 250 grams) puff pastry, thawed
• 115 grams cream cheese, softened
• 60 grams shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon (8 grams) all-purpose flour, for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle, about 25 x 20 cm.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and chopped jalapeños until smooth.
4. Spread the cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry.
5. Fold the puff pastry over the filling and press gently to seal the edges.
6. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips about 2.5 cm (1 inch) wide.
7. Twist each strip several times and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush the twists with the beaten egg to help them turn golden while baking.
9. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed, golden, and crispy.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8–10 twists
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add extra cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
• Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, or dried herbs on top for extra seasoning.
• Make smaller twists for bite-sized snacks or party platters.
• Use mild green chili instead of jalapeños if you prefer less heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• You can freeze the twists before baking—place them on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the twists and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before baking.

How spicy are they?

The heat depends on the jalapeños. Removing seeds reduces spice, while keeping some seeds adds extra heat.

Can I use frozen jalapeños?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the pastry.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine, though freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly without any meat ingredients.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the pastry is folded and sealed properly and avoid overfilling each strip.

Can I add herbs?

Yes, chopped chives, parsley, or cilantro can enhance the flavor.

Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use vegan cream cheese, vegan shredded cheese, and a plant-based puff pastry alternative.

How do I serve them best?

Serve warm for melty cheese. They pair well with salsa, guacamole, or a creamy dip.

Can I make them smaller or larger?

Yes, adjust the size of the strips to make bite-sized twists or bigger twists for a more substantial snack.

Conclusion

Jalapeño popper twists are a quick, easy, and irresistible snack that combines creamy cheese and a touch of heat inside a flaky, golden pastry. Perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you want a savory, cheesy treat.

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