texas twinkies
Texas Twinkies are the ultimate Tex-Mex party appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeños with the smoky richness of bacon and the creamy indulgence of cream cheese and cheddar.
Originating from Texas barbecue joints, particularly popularized by Hutchins BBQ in McKinney, these stuffed jalapeño poppers take the concept to new heights by incorporating brisket into the filling.
The large, fresh jalapeños are cored and stuffed with a savory mixture of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped brisket, and spices, then wrapped in bacon and smoked or baked until the bacon is crisp and the filling is hot and bubbly.
What makes Texas Twinkies special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures – the spicy kick from the jalapeños, the smoky depth from both the bacon and brisket, and the cooling creaminess of the cheese filling. They’re substantial enough to satisfy hungry guests but portable enough to serve as finger food.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, game day gathering, or just want to impress friends with your culinary skills, Texas Twinkies deliver big Texas flavor in every bite. The recipe can be customized with various seasonings or cheeses to suit your preference, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer repertoire.
They’re especially delicious when served with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping!
Timing
📌 Number of Servings: 12 Texas Twinkies
⏳ Preparation Time: 25 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
🥢 Ingredients :
✅12 large fresh jalapeño peppers
✅8 oz cream cheese, softened
✅1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✅1 cup chopped smoked brisket (or pulled pork)
✅1 tsp garlic powder
✅1 tsp smoked paprika
✅½ tsp black pepper
✅½ tsp onion powder
✅12 slices bacon (regular, not thick-cut)
✅2 tbsp barbecue rub (optional)
✅¼ cup barbecue sauce for serving
👨🍳 Instructions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or prepare your smoker to 250°F (121°C).
- Wash the jalapeños thoroughly. Cut a slit lengthwise along one side of each jalapeño.
- Using a small spoon or knife, carefully remove the seeds and membranes from inside each jalapeño. Keep the stems intact for easy handling.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped brisket, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Spoon the filling mixture into each cored jalapeño, being careful not to overfill.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, starting at the top near the stem and working your way down. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- If desired, sprinkle barbecue rub over the bacon-wrapped jalapeños.
- If baking: Place the prepared Texas Twinkies on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired crispiness.
- For smoking: Arrange the Texas Twinkies on the smoker and let them smoke for 30–35 minutes, until the bacon is fully cooked and crispy.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with barbecue sauce for dipping.
💡 TIPS :
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid the oils irritating your skin.
- For less heat, make sure to thoroughly remove all seeds and membranes.
- Choose jalapeños that are straight and uniform in size for easier preparation.
- Bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing for a smoother filling.
- For extra flavor, consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce to the filling mixture.
- You can prepare these a day ahead and refrigerate before cooking.
- For crispier bacon, you can pre-cook it slightly before wrapping.
- Secure the bacon with toothpicks if it won’t stay wrapped.
- For a twist, try using different meats like pulled pork or chopped chicken.
- Let the Texas Twinkies rest for 5 minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
📊Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 235
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 1.5g
- Protein: 12g
❓ FAQ :
- Can I make Texas Twinkies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
- How spicy are Texas Twinkies? The heat level varies based on the jalapeños used. Remove all seeds and membranes for a milder version, or leave some in for more heat.
- What can I substitute for brisket? Pulled pork, chopped smoked chicken, or even crumbled cooked sausage work well as alternatives.
- Can I freeze Texas Twinkies? Yes, you can freeze them uncooked. Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Can I grill Texas Twinkies instead of baking or smoking them? Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the bacon is crisp.
- What’s a good cheese substitute if cheddar isn’t available? Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all work great as substitutes.
- How do I know when they’re done cooking? The bacon should be crispy and the cheese filling should be hot and bubbly.
- Can I make a vegetarian version? Yes, substitute the brisket with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives, and use vegetarian bacon.
- What’s the best dipping sauce to serve with Texas Twinkies? Barbecue sauce is traditional, but ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or avocado crema also pair well.
- Why are they called Texas Twinkies? The name refers to their shape and size similar to Twinkies snack cakes, combined with the Texas barbecue influence of using brisket and jalapeños.
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