When the football season rolls around, my search for the ultimate game day snack begins. This year, I stumbled upon a flavor bomb that I can’t stop raving about: Texas Twinkies. Imagine juicy jalapeños bursting with a creamy, cheesy brisket filling, all snugly wrapped in crispy bacon—who could resist? As I popped one into my mouth, the delightful mix of smoky, spicy, and cheesy goodness transported me to a backyard BBQ where laughter and cheers fill the air.
These cheesy bacon-wrapped beauties are more than just a crowd-pleaser; they’re incredibly easy to prepare, even for a last-minute gathering. So if you’ve grown weary of the same old chips and dip routine, get ready to elevate your appetizers to a whole new level. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, Texas Twinkies are a savory delight that will keep everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Why are Texas Twinkies a Game Changer?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a robust mix of smoky, cheesy, and spicy notes that will blow your taste buds away.
Effortless Preparation: Only a few simple steps make whipping these up a breeze, even for novice cooks.
Perfect for Sharing: Great as party appetizers or tailgating treats, they’ll have your guests clamoring for the recipe!
Versatile Fillings: Feel free to switch out the brisket for chicken or sausage based on your cravings.
Satisfying Snack: With 15g of protein per Twinkie, these bad boys are not just tasty; they’re filling enough to keep hunger at bay!
Texas Twinkies Ingredients
For the Filling
• Jalapeños – Choose large ones for maximum stuffing capacity; consider soaking them to tame the heat.
• Cream Cheese – Softening is key for blending; don’t skip this for a rich, creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese – Block cheese melts better than pre-shredded; feel free to substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Beef Brisket – Leftover brisket makes this dish hearty; other options include ground chorizo or pulled pork for variety.
• Chili Powder – Adjust to match your spice preference; it enhances the filling’s depth and warmth.
For the Wrap
• Bacon – Essential for its salty, crispy outer layer; no substitutes can deliver the same satisfying crunch.
For the Glaze
• BBQ Sauce – A sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the flavor; try different brands or homemade to personalize your Texas Twinkies.
How to Make Texas Twinkies
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet, spraying it with nonstick spray for easy cleanup later.
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Slice the tops off the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and inner membranes using gloves to prevent irritation from the spicy oils.
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Mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, brisket, and chili powder in a mixing bowl until well combined for a creamy filling.
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Fill a Ziplock bag with the cream cheese mixture, snip the corner, and pipe it generously into each prepared jalapeño until filled to the brim.
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Wrap each jalapeño with a slice of bacon, ensuring they’re completely covered for that crispy, indulgent exterior.
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Bake the wrapped jalapeños on the wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, flip them over and continue baking for another 10 minutes until bacon is crispy.
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Glaze each jalapeño with BBQ sauce and broil for 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning; this step adds a lovely caramelization.
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Cool the Texas Twinkies briefly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and making them easier to handle.
Optional: Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping—it’s delicious!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Texas Twinkies?
Elevate your gathering with these flavorful pairing ideas that balance the smoky, cheesy deliciousness of Texas Twinkies.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A tangy crunch that refreshes the palate, providing a cool contrast to the spicy, savory bites. The creaminess of the slaw complements the crunchy bacon perfectly.
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Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds a buttery richness that complements the spiciness of the jalapeños, bringing a fresh twist to each bite.
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BBQ Beans: Sweet and smoky, these hearty beans soak up the surrounding flavors, making them an ideal side dish that enhances the overall meal experience.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred to perfection, the sweetness of grilled corn balances the heat from the Texas Twinkies while adding an enjoyable texture to your plate.
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Margaritas: A refreshing cocktail that pairs excellently with spicy food, the citrus and ice cold nature of margaritas will enhance the flavor adventure of each Twinkie.
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Baked Potato Skins: Crispy and cheesy, these savory skins bring a comforting element to the table, inviting everyone to enjoy togetherness and nostalgia.
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Chocolate Brownies: To satisfy the sweet tooth afterward, indulge in fudgy brownies that offer a rich chocolate note, providing balance to the savory and spicy appetizer.
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Apple Cider: For something non-alcoholic, a glass of warm apple cider will offer a comforting sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the Twinkies.
These sides and sips will not only complement your Texas Twinkies but also create a memorable feast that delights all who gather around the table!
Texas Twinkies Variations
Feel free to explore these creative spins on Texas Twinkies that will tempt your taste buds and spark joy in every bite!
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Spicy Swap: Replace brisket with spicy chorizo for a fiery kick that delivers a whole new level of flavor. The combination of flavors will ignite your palate with each tantalizing bite!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute brisket with black beans and corn mixed with cream cheese for a hearty vegetarian option. This delightful filling will keep things savory while catering to non-meat eaters.
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Cheesy Blend: Mix in some gooey mozzarella alongside cheddar for an ultra-cheesy, stretchy experience. The variant will elevate your bites and make them even more indulgent.
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Sweet Heat: Drizzle a sweet chili sauce over the top just before serving to add a touch of sweetness that plays wonderfully with the spicy jalapeños. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight your guests!
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Herbed Up: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or chives into your cream cheese mixture for a fresh burst of flavor. The vibrant herbs will add brightness and elevate the overall taste profile.
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Crunchy Topping: Before the final broil, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for an added crunch that compliments the soft inside while offering a delightful contrast in texture.
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Mild Peppers: For a milder option, swap jalapeños for Anaheim or poblano peppers. This way, you can indulge in the creamy goodness without any overwhelming heat!
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Salsa-Fest: Serve with a variety of salsas, such as mango salsa or a zesty avocado salsa, for a fun and interactive appetizer experience. Pairing the Twinkies with different salsas creates fresh combinations everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Texas Twinkies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (the creamy cheese and brisket mixture) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can stuff the jalapeños and wrap them in bacon up to 3 days ahead; just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When it’s game time, bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they heat through just as deliciously. This preparation not only saves time on busy days but guarantees that your Texas Twinkies will still be bursting with flavor and crunch when served!
How to Store and Freeze Texas Twinkies
Fridge: Keep your Texas Twinkies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Texas Twinkies in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated Texas Twinkies on a baking tray and heat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Thawing: If frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal texture.
Expert Tips for Texas Twinkies
- Choose Your Jalapeños: Select large, firm jalapeños for maximum stuffing potential. Soaking them in vinegar can reduce heat levels if mild flavors are preferred.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; this ensures a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
- Bacon Wrapping Technique: Wrap each jalapeño tightly with bacon to avoid any pieces falling off during cooking. This ensures a crispy texture in every bite of the Texas Twinkies.
- Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling your Texas Twinkies. They can burn quickly, so monitor closely for perfect caramelization without charring.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness instead of microwaving, which may result in sogginess.
Texas Twinkies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right jalapeños for Texas Twinkies?
Absolutely! For the best Texas Twinkies, select large, firm jalapeños that will hold the stuffing well. If you’re concerned about the heat, soak them in a mixture of vinegar or soda for about 30 minutes before using, which can help temper their spiciness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Texas Twinkies?
Very simple! Store your leftover Texas Twinkies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their flavors fresh and textures intact, avoid stacking them to prevent crushing.
Can I freeze Texas Twinkies for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for a few hours. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to mark the bag with the date!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Texas Twinkies?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the frozen Texas Twinkies on a baking tray and heat for about 15-20 minutes until they’re heated through and regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them mushy.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
Sometimes, this can happen! If you find that your filling is too loose, you can add more cream cheese to stabilize it. Start with a couple of tablespoons, mixing well until you achieve a creamy consistency that will hold up when piped into the jalapeños. Another option is to chill the mixture for 30 minutes, which can help it firm up!
Are Texas Twinkies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
While Texas Twinkies feature common allergens like dairy and gluten from the bacon and cheeses, you can make adaptations for dietary needs. Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version, and replace bacon with a suitable meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Always double-check labels for hidden allergens!
Irresistible Texas Twinkies: Bacon-Wrapped Flavor Bombs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet, spraying it with nonstick spray for easy cleanup later.
- Slice the tops off the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and inner membranes using gloves.
- Mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, brisket, and chili powder in a mixing bowl until well combined.
- Fill a Ziplock bag with the cream cheese mixture, snip the corner, and pipe it into each jalapeño.
- Wrap each jalapeño with a slice of bacon, ensuring they're completely covered.
- Bake the wrapped jalapeños on the wire rack for 10 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10 minutes until bacon is crispy.
- Glaze each jalapeño with BBQ sauce and broil for 2 minutes, monitoring closely.
- Cool the Texas Twinkies briefly before serving.