Texas Twinkies

Texas Twinkies might be the type of appetizer you enjoy more than you should. You know the ones: You get one, take a bite, and realize you're going to need a half dozen more. And if anyone asks, you'd never admit how many you took from the platter. (We're right there with you.)

These stuffed peppers are over-the-top rich and indulgent—at once meaty-smoky, creamy-cheesy, garlicky-savory, and crispy-bacony. Some recipes call for grilling, but we tried that and chose to bake instead—that technique works much better. A quick stint under the broiler at the end adds the char you might miss from the grill.

Learn how to make Texas Twinkies. This will be your new favorite party food.

Why Are They Called Texas Twinkies?

A playful nod to the popular snack cake, Texas Twinkies are not quite what you'd expect if you were hearing the name for the first time. This savory dish of cheese-stuffed jalapeño peppers, wrapped in bacon and served hot, is a spicy appetizer or side dish served at barbecues and cookouts.

While the exact origin is unknown, they most likely originated in Texas as a unique twist on classic stuffed jalapeño peppers by a barbecue pitmaster or enthusiast. A beloved dish, they're found on barbecue menus and at cookouts throughout Texas and beyond.

Ingredients for Texas Twinkies

If there was ever a more decadent mix of ingredients, we certainly haven't seen it. To make Texas Twinkies, you'll need:

• Scallions: Adds a pop of freshness and oniony flavor to the filling for these peppers.
• Cream cheese: A creamy, tangy base for the jalapeño filling. For extra interest, you can use a flavored cream cheese.
• Sharp Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy bite to the filling. Substitute with pepper Jack or Monterey Jack if you prefer.
• Garlic clove: For depth of flavor.
• Smoked beef brisket: Adds a smoky, meaty addition to the peppers.
• Large jalapeño peppers: The base of the Twinkies, cooked until tender with the hot filling inside.
• Thick-cut bacon: Surrounds the peppers for a crisp, bacony exterior.
• Barbecue sauce: Brushed over to add a tangy, sweet flavor. Caramelizes after broiling.
  

How To Make Texas Twinkies

While these loaded jalapeños might seem complicated, they're deceptively simple to put together. In fact, once you've made a few, you'll have a rhythm down. Thank goodness, because you'll be getting requests for these for years to come. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare filling: Stir to combine scallions, cream cheese, Cheddar, and garlic. Stir in brisket; set aside.
• Step 2. Prepare peppers: Wearing gloves, cut a lengthwise slit in in each pepper. Cut a crosswise slit at the top of each pepper, making sure not to cut all the way through. Open each pepper and scrape out the seeds and membranes.
• Step 3. Fill and bake: Fill each pepper with the brisket mixture and transfer to prepared pan. Stretch each bacon slice and wrap around each pepper, securing with toothpicks. Bake until peppers are tender.
• Step 4. Brush and broil: Remove pan from oven and turn broiler to high. Brush barbecue sauce over peppers and broil until browned. Turn, brush, and broil remaining side.

Texas Twinkies Variations

To change up Texas Twinkies to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand, consider these variation ideas:

• Cheese: Swap the Cheddar for pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or other types of melty cheeses as preferred.
• Protein: Swap the brisket with cooked sausage, shrimp, or pulled pork. Make it vegetarian by leaving out the brisket or adding in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or preferred veggies.
• Barbecue sauce: Opt for a spicy barbecue sauce, or swap with a honey or maple glaze or sweet chili sauce for a sweet finish.
• Herbs and seasonings: Add Cajun seasoning, finely chopped parsley or cilantro, or other seasonings as desired to amp up the flavor of the filling even more.
• Dipping sauces: Serve with barbecue sauce, aioli, crema, or preferred sauce for even more fun while eating.

Can I Make Texas Twinkies Ahead?

Texas Twinkies can be prepared in advance, so you can bake them off and serve them hot when guests arrive.

To make them ahead, assemble the jalapeños as directed, wrapping with bacon. Wrap tightly or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few minutes to the initial baking time if needed.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Texas Twinkies

Store leftover Texas Twinkies well-wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cover and reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or on the grill until heated through. You can also reheat these in the microwave in a pinch, but you'll lose out on the former crispness of the bacon.

What To Serve With Texas Twinkies

These smoky, caramelized beauties are best paired with dishes that enhance their spicy, creamy profile. Classic barbecue meats and sides like coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, baked beans, mac and cheese, grilled corn, and more make the perfect complements. Serve up with fresh veggies and dip, fruit salad, and of course, beer, iced tea, or lemonade to wash it all down.

More Cheesy Party Food Recipes You'll Love

Is it a party without cheesy appetizers? We think not. These indulgent dishes might just disappear in no time, so having a variety of options is a must:

• Pimiento Cheese Flatbread
• Three-Cheese Spinach-Artichoke Dip
• Spicy Cheese Straws
• Whipped Goat Cheese with Smoky Bacon Jam
• Jalapeno Popper Dip
• Party Poppers
• Rotel Sausage Dip

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.