Jalapeno Popper Twists are a delightful twist on the classic appetizer, combining flaky puff pastry with a spicy cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeño, and bacon filling. These golden spirals are not just visually appealing but also incredibly delicious, making them a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or a casual get-together, these treats will disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love This Jalapeno Popper Twists

These Jalapeno Popper Twists are perfect for a variety of occasions. They are:

Quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish.
Made with simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.
Versatile; you can customize the filling to suit your taste.
Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.
Gluten-free, making them suitable for a wide range of diets.
Excellent as both a snack and a party appetizer.
Incredibly cheesy and spicy, sure to satisfy your cravings.
Fun to make with kids or friends, turning cooking into a bonding experience.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Twists

Gather these items:

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but kept cold
6 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
3–4 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
6–8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Twists Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the cream cheese, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 3: Lay the cold puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cream cheese filling in a thin, even layer over one half of the pastry sheet all the way to the edges.
Step 4: Fold the unfilled half of the pastry over the filling. Press firmly along all edges to seal the layers together.
Step 5: Cut the folded pastry into strips about ½ inch wide using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Keep cuts even and clean.
Step 6: Pick up each strip by both ends. Twist in opposite directions to form a tight spiral. Press the ends gently onto the parchment to anchor them in place. Leave at least 1 inch of space between each twist.
Step 7: Brush each twist thoroughly with the beaten egg. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of every twist.
Step 8: Bake on the middle rack for 18–20 minutes. Rotate the pan once halfway through. Pull the twists from the oven when they turn deep golden brown and the cheese bubbles on top. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Jalapeno Popper Twists

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your puff pastry is cold to achieve the best flaky texture.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.
For an extra kick, add more jalapeños or use spicy cheese.
Brush the twists with additional egg wash for a darker golden color.
These twists can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Jalapeno Popper Twists

These Jalapeno Popper Twists are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your presentation by serving them with:

A creamy ranch or blue cheese dip for extra flavor.
Fresh veggies and a tangy dip platter for a complete snack spread.
Pairing them with cocktails or craft beers at your next gathering.

How to Store and Reheat Jalapeno Popper Twists

To store leftovers, place the twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy. This method prevents them from becoming soggy, ensuring they taste just as delicious as when freshly made. These twists are also great for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jalapeno Popper Twists

What’s the secret to perfect Jalapeno Popper Twists?

The secret lies in using cold puff pastry and ensuring the filling is well-seasoned. This combination leads to a flaky outer layer and a deliciously rich filling. Don’t skip the egg wash for that beautiful golden finish!

Can I make Jalapeno Popper Twists ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the twists ahead of time! Assemble them and freeze before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Jalapeno Popper Twists?

To avoid soggy twists, ensure your filling is not overly moist. Also, don’t forget to seal the edges properly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Following the instructions carefully will yield the best results!

Variations of Jalapeno Popper Twists You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, here are some variations to consider:

For a vegetarian option, substitute bacon with diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for added heat.
Try a gluten-free puff pastry for those with dietary restrictions.

Irresistible Jalapeno Popper Twists fresh from the oven on a serving platter

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for dessert!

Close-up of Jalapeno Popper Twists showcasing the cheesy filling

These Jalapeno Popper Twists are sure to impress your guests. For more appetizer ideas, consider making mini cranberry cheesecakes or caramel apple cheesecake bars!