Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Twists

Spicy, cheesy, and irresistibly flaky, these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Twists are the ultimate party snack! Loaded with cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapenos, each golden twist delivers bold flavor in every crispy bite. They’re super easy to make and guaranteed to be the first thing to disappear from the table!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spicy, Cheesy, & Flaky – All the flavors of jalapeno poppers in a fun, handheld twist.
Quick & Easy – Made with store-bought puff pastry.
Perfect Party Food – Great for game day, holidays, or casual gatherings.
Customizable Heat Level – Make them as mild or spicy as you like.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep ahead and bake when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1–2 jalapenos, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions (optional for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 2 strips cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
• A sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor
• Crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapenos, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry slightly on a lightly floured surface.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet.
Fold the pastry over the filling like a book to enclose it.

Step 4: Cut and Twist
Cut the filled pastry into strips about 1 inch wide.
Gently twist each strip a few times and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of milk.
Brush each twist with the egg wash to help them turn golden and shiny.

Step 6: Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or a creamy jalapeno dip.

Tips for Success
Thaw Puff Pastry Properly – Keep it chilled but pliable for easy handling.
Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the twists to unravel.
Twist Gently – A few loose twists are perfect to show the filling.
Use a Sharp Knife – Helps create clean cuts without dragging the pastry.
Bake Until Deeply Golden – For the best crispy, flaky texture.

Serving Suggestions
With Ranch Dressing – Classic jalapeno popper pairing.
With Salsa or Guacamole – Adds a fresh contrast.
On an Appetizer Platter – Perfect alongside sliders and wings.
As a Snack – Great for parties, game day, or movie nights.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store cooled twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing:
Freeze baked twists in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 5–8 minutes until crisp and warm.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pickled jalapenos instead of fresh?
   Yes! Pickled jalapenos will add a tangy, slightly milder kick.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Definitely. Assemble and refrigerate the twists, then bake fresh when ready.
3. Can I make them spicier?
   Add extra diced jalapenos, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
4. Can I use other cheeses?
   Yes, pepper jack, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorites will work.
5. Can I make them smaller for bite-sized appetizers?
   Sure! Just cut the strips thinner and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Twists are flaky, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering. With a buttery crunch on the outside and a gooey, flavorful filling inside, they’re everything you love about jalapeno poppers in a fun, shareable form.

Bake up a batch today and watch them disappear! Don’t forget to share your spicy twist creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: American / Party Appetizer

Nutritional Information (Per Twist – makes about 12):
Calories: 150 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 11g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 200mg

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