If you’re gearing up for game day and want a snack that’s bold, cheesy, and downright addictive, these jalapeno popper twists are the perfect play. Combining flaky puff pastry with a creamy, spicy jalapeno filling, this fun twist on a classic appetizer delivers all the flavor of jalapeno poppers—without the hassle of frying. They come together quickly, bake beautifully golden, and disappear just as fast. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or keeping things cozy at home, these twists instantly elevate any snack table.
🌶️ Why You’ll Love This Jalapeno Popper Twists Recipe
These twists are everything you love about creamy jalapeno poppers wrapped inside buttery, crisp pastry. The warm, melty filling pairs perfectly with the light crunch of puff pastry, making each bite rich, savory, and irresistible. They’re easy to customize, bake in under 20 minutes, and work great for game days, parties, movie nights, or anytime you want a simple appetizer that tastes impressive.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Twists
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
👩🍳 How to Make Delicious Jalapeno Popper Twists (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, jalapeno slices, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and evenly blended. Taste and adjust spice as needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently smooth out any folds and slightly enlarge the sheet.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Using a spatula, spread the jalapeno filling evenly over the entire pastry sheet, reaching near the edges so every bite gets flavor.
Step 5: Fold and Slice
Fold the pastry sheet in half like closing a book. Press gently to seal.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into even strips—about 1 inch wide.
Step 6: Twist Into Shape
Take each strip and twist it several times as if wringing out a towel. Place each twist on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Step 7: Add Egg Wash
Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush each twist lightly with egg wash to help achieve that rich golden color.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed, crisp, and golden brown.
Cool for a few minutes before serving—though they’re fantastic warm!
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Make it milder: Use mild green chilies instead of jalapenos.
- Extra heat: Add a pinch of chili flakes or spicy cheese.
- Add protein: Mix in finely diced cooked chicken for a heartier twist.
- Herby flavor: Add chopped green onion or parsley to brighten the filling.
- Mess-free option: Use diced jalapenos instead of sliced for smoother spreading.
Delicious Jalapeno Popper Twists for Game Day
- Total Time: 38
- Yield: 12 twists 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Jalapeno Popper Twists for Game Day are made with flaky puff pastry wrapped around a creamy, cheesy jalapeno filling. These easy baked twists are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and perfect for parties, game days, or any fun gathering.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack
1/2 cup sliced jalapenos, fresh or pickled (seeds removed for milder heat if desired)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, sliced jalapenos, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and evenly combined. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed.
3. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently smooth out the seams and slightly enlarge the sheet.
4. Spread the jalapeno cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire puff pastry sheet, going close to the edges for even flavor in every bite.
5. Fold the puff pastry sheet in half like a book, encasing the filling. Gently press to help seal the layers together.
6. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into strips about 1 inch wide.
7. Take each strip and twist it several times to create a spiral shape, then place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
8. Brush the tops of the twists lightly with the beaten egg to help them brown and become glossy as they bake.
9. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the twists are puffed, crisp, and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
10. Serve the jalapeno popper twists with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, sour cream, or a creamy cilantro dip.
Notes
For a milder flavor, use seeded jalapenos or substitute part of the jalapenos with mild green chilies.
You can use reduced-fat cream cheese to slightly lighten the recipe.
Add chopped green onions or parsley to the filling for extra color and freshness.
Make ahead tip: assemble and twist the pastry, then chill the unbaked twists in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to re-crisp the pastry.
These twists are great for game days, parties, potlucks, or any casual gathering.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 18
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 260
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 40
🥘 Serving Ideas & Storage
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Ranch dressing
- Sour cream
- Creamy cilantro dip
- Salsa verde
Perfect for:
- Game day spreads
- Movie night snacks
- Holiday appetizers
- Potlucks and gatherings
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to re-crisp.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked twisted strips for up to 2 months; bake from frozen +3 extra minutes.
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Twist)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbs | 14g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 260mg |
💬 Final Thoughts
With their crispy layers and creamy jalapeno-packed center, these Jalapeno Popper Twists are guaranteed game day winners. They’re quick to make, fun to eat, and endlessly customizable—which means once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your appetizer rotation.