Texas Twinkies

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the bold flavors of Texas cuisine with a culinary classic? Introducing Texas Twinkies: a mouthwatering appetizer that challenges your perception of traditional stuffed jalapeños. Did you know that over 60% of American homes have a grill or smoker? This statistic reflects the rising popularity of smoked foods. Perfectly blending cream cheese, pepper jack, and smoked brisket, these spiced-up jalapeños will have you hooked from the first bite. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into how to make these irresistible Texas Twinkies, from ingredients to serving suggestions.

Ingredients Needed

To make the ultimate Texas Twinkies, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 large-sized fresh jalapeños: Choose firm, vibrant jalapeños for maximum crunch and flavor. Their heat can be adjusted based on preference.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): This creamy base adds richness and balances the spice of the jalapeños.
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese (freshly shredded): The spicy kick of pepper jack brings an extra layer of flavor.
• 12 ounces chopped smoked beef brisket: Whether homemade or store-bought, the smoky flavor elevates this dish.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: A crucial seasoning that enhances the overall taste.
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder: This aromatic spice amplifies the flavors of the cheese and brisket.
• 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and sophistication.
• 24 ounces thick-cut bacon: The crispy outer layer is key to a heavenly texture.
• Rounded toothpicks: These help secure the bacon on the jalapeños.
• ¾ cup sweet and tangy barbeque sauce: The finishing touch that caramelizes beautifully on the bacon. (I personally recommend Sweet Baby Ray’s)

Timing

This Texas Twinkies recipe boasts an efficient prep and cook time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 85 minutes

That’s approximately 20% less time than many other stuffed jalapeño recipes, allowing you to enjoy your delicious appetizer faster.

How to Make Texas Twinkies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on top. Generously spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Prepare the Jalapeños

Carefully slice a “T” shape into each jalapeño just below the cap. Wearing nitrile gloves, scrape out the seeds and membranes, leaving the cap intact. This is crucial for minimizing heat.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Fold in the shredded pepper jack cheese until combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Jalapeños

Fill each hollow jalapeño with chopped brisket, then use a piping bag or spoon to load with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t hold back; overstuffing is encouraged!

Step 6: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap two slices of bacon tightly around each stuffed jalapeño, fastening them with 1-2 toothpicks.

Step 7: Bake the Texas Twinkies

Place the wrapped jalapeños on the cooling rack and bake for 45 minutes until the bacon is crisp.

Step 8: Add BBQ Sauce

After 45 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C). Brush each jalapeño with your favorite BBQ sauce and bake for an additional 10 minutes for that caramelized finish.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the jalapeños to rest for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed while still warm!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 Texas Twinkie) you can expect:

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g

This dish is substantial yet maintains manageable calorie counts.

Healthier Alternatives for Texas Twinkies

Looking for a healthier spin on Texas Twinkies? Here are some suggestions:

• Substitute regular cream cheese with light cream cheese or Greek yogurt for lower fat content.
• Opt for turkey or chicken bacon instead of pork bacon.
• Replace half of the cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative to reduce dairy intake.
• Use quinoa or black beans instead of brisket for a vegetarian option while still rich in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Texas Twinkies can be served as a hearty appetizer or as part of a larger meal. Here are a few ways to elevate your presentation:

• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or additional BBQ sauce.
• Pair with tortilla chips for a perfect sharing option during game day.
• Offer a side of fresh, homemade salsa or guacamole to mesh well with the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overstuffing jalapeños without securing bacon: Ensure the bacon stays in place for even cooking and flavor retention.
2. Skipping the cooling rack: This allows for proper air circulation around the jalapeños, ensuring crisp bacon.
3. Not adjusting for spice: Taste-test your jalapeños first! Choose milder or sweet varieties if necessary.

Storing Tips for Texas Twinkies

Leftovers? No problem! To keep your Texas Twinkies delightful for days:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Texas Twinkies are more than just an appetizer; they’re a flavor-packed experience that captures the essence of Texas cuisine. With this easy recipe in your collection, you’ll impress friends and family with your culinary skills. Are you ready to try these scrumptious bites? Share your feedback or explore more delicious recipes right here on our blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Texas Twinkies?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked, wrapped jalapeños and bake them directly from the freezer, increasing the cooking time by about 10 minutes.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can control the heat by selecting mild jalapeños or removing more seeds and membranes. Additionally, using a milder cheese can help mitigate spice levels.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap out the meat for quinoa, black beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian alternative while retaining the great flavor.

Can I use a grill instead of an oven?

Definitely! Preparing Texas Twinkies on the grill adds a unique smoky flavor. Just maintain similar temperatures and cooking times.

What dipping sauces pair well with Texas Twinkies?

Creamy ranch, tangy BBQ, or even a zesty avocado salsa can elevate the dish and enhance the flavor experience.

Enjoy making your own Texas Twinkies, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!

Print