Texas Twinkies

Introduction

Texas Twinkies are the kind of appetizer that commands attention. Smoky, spicy, cheesy, and loaded with bold barbecue flavor, they’re everything you love about jalapeño poppers—taken to the next level. If you’ve never had one, imagine a perfectly roasted jalapeño stuffed with tender chopped brisket and creamy cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and brushed with just the right amount of tangy-sweet barbecue sauce. Sounds irresistible, right?

What makes Texas Twinkies stand out is their hearty, indulgent bite. Unlike traditional poppers, these aren’t dainty—they’re big, bold, and packed with layers of flavor. The combination of smoky brisket, rich cheese, and spicy jalapeño delivers that classic Texas BBQ experience in every mouthful. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, prepping for game day, or just craving something insanely good, these stuffed jalapeños will be the first thing to disappear from the table.

And don’t worry—making them is easier than you think! You can smoke them for that authentic BBQ taste or pop them in the oven for a quick and equally delicious alternative. Either way, you’ll end up with a crispy, gooey, flavor-packed snack that’s sure to impress.

So, if you’re ready to bring some serious flavor to your next gathering, Texas Twinkies are the way to go. Fire up the grill (or oven), grab some jalapeños, and get ready for a mouthwatering bite that perfectly balances heat, smoke, and sweetness. Your guests will be asking for these again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Texas Twinkies! Here are just a few:

• Smoky and Spicy – The combination of smoked brisket and jalapeños gives this dish an irresistible kick.
• Cheesy and Creamy – The rich, melty cream cheese filling balances out the heat.
• Bacon-Wrapped Perfection – Everything tastes better with crispy bacon, right?
• Perfect for BBQ Lovers – A great way to use leftover brisket and add extra smoky flavor.
• Easy to Customize – Adjust the spice level or try different cheeses to make them your own.
• Great for Any Occasion – Serve these at parties, cookouts, tailgates, or even as a side dish.
• Oven or Smoker-Friendly – No smoker? No problem! These taste just as delicious baked in the oven.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare these in advance and cook them when you’re ready.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 Texas Twinkies
• Calories per piece: Approximately 320 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Fat: 24g, Carbohydrates: 5g, Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Texas Twinkies:

For the Jalapeños:

• 12 large jalapeños
• 2 cups chopped smoked brisket
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

Ingredient Highlights

• Jalapeños – Choose large jalapeños to hold plenty of filling.
• Brisket – Smoked brisket adds a rich, meaty flavor to the filling.
• Cream Cheese – Helps create a smooth and creamy filling.
• Bacon – Thick-cut bacon gives the perfect crispy bite.
• Barbecue Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and extra smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Texas Twinkies:

Prepare the Jalapeños

1. Slice the Peppers – Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat level. If you prefer whole Texas Twinkies, make a small slit along one side and scoop out the seeds.
2. Soak (Optional) – If you want to reduce the heat, soak the jalapeños in ice water for 30 minutes before stuffing.

Make the Filling

1. Chop the Brisket – Finely chop the smoked brisket into small pieces.
2. Mix the Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the chopped brisket, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.

Assemble the Texas Twinkies

1. Stuff the Peppers – Spoon the brisket mixture into each jalapeño half, packing it in firmly.
2. Wrap with Bacon – Wrap a slice of thick-cut bacon around each stuffed jalapeño, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. Brush with BBQ Sauce – Lightly brush each wrapped jalapeño with barbecue sauce for extra flavor.

Cook the Texas Twinkies

In a Smoker:

1. Preheat the Smoker – Heat the smoker to 250°F.
2. Smoke the Twinkies – Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the smoker grates and smoke for 40-45 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot.
3. Baste with BBQ Sauce – During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush with additional barbecue sauce.

In an Oven:

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F.
2. Bake – Place the jalapeños on a baking sheet with a wire rack and bake for 30-35 minutes.
3. Broil for Crispiness – If needed, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the bacon.
4. Brush with BBQ Sauce – Apply a final coat of barbecue sauce before serving.

How to Serve

These Texas Twinkies are packed with flavor and can be served in several ways:

1. As an Appetizer – Perfect for game days, tailgates, or BBQ parties.
2. With Ranch or Sour Cream – A cool dip helps balance the spice.
3. On a BBQ Platter – Serve alongside smoked ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.
4. With Pickles or Slaw – Adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky heat.
5. As a Topping – Chop them up and use as a topping for burgers or nachos.

Additional Tips

• Adjust the Spice Level – Leave some seeds for extra heat or soak the jalapeños to reduce spiciness.
• Use Different Cheeses – Try pepper jack or gouda for a twist.
• Make Ahead – Stuff and wrap the jalapeños a day before, then cook when ready.
• Crispier Bacon Tip – Cook the bacon partially before wrapping for an extra-crispy bite.

Recipe Variations

• Pulled Pork Texas Twinkies – Swap out brisket for pulled pork.
• Breakfast Twinkies – Use scrambled eggs and sausage instead of brisket.
• Sweet & Spicy – Drizzle with honey for a sweet twist.
• Vegetarian Option – Use a plant-based meat substitute.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Texas Twinkies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Whether you’re making them ahead for a party or saving leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for the best flavor and texture.

• Refrigeration
• Store cooked Texas Twinkies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing
• Uncooked Texas Twinkies: Assemble them fully, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Cooked Texas Twinkies: Let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating from Frozen
• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bacon is crispy.
• Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
• Microwave: Not recommended as it may make the bacon rubbery, but if necessary, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Pro Tips for Storage
• ✔ Label your containers with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored.
• ✔ Avoid stacking to prevent bacon from sticking together.
• ✔ Use parchment paper between layers when freezing to prevent sticking.
• ✔ Reheat uncovered for the crispiest results.

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect Texas Twinkies? You’re not alone! Whether you’re wondering about spice levels, cooking methods, or the best way to store leftovers, this FAQ section has you covered. Here are some of the most common questions to help you make the best bacon-wrapped, brisket-stuffed jalapeños every time!

• Can I make Texas Twinkies ahead of time?
• Yes! Assemble them in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
• How can I make them less spicy?
• Remove all seeds and membranes, or use mini bell peppers instead.
• What’s the best cheese to use?
• Cream cheese works best, but cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack add more flavor.
• Can I bake them instead of grilling?
• Yes, bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes until bacon is crispy.
• How do I keep the bacon from unwrapping?
• Wrap tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
• What’s the best dipping sauce?
• Ranch, BBQ sauce, or a spicy chipotle mayo are all great choices.
• Can I use turkey bacon?
• Yes, but it may not crisp up as well as regular bacon.
• What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F or air fry at 375°F for a few minutes.

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Conclusion

Texas Twinkies are the ultimate BBQ appetizer, packing bold flavors into every bite. Imagine smoky, tender brisket mixed with creamy cheese, stuffed inside a spicy jalapeño, and wrapped in crispy bacon—pure perfection! Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout, tailgating with friends, or just craving something hearty and delicious, these stuffed jalapeños are sure to impress.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make and can be customized to suit your spice level. Want an extra kick? Add some hot sauce or pepper jack cheese. Prefer a milder version? Remove the jalapeño seeds or use sweet peppers instead. However you prepare them, one thing’s for sure—Texas Twinkies will disappear fast!

So fire up the smoker, grab your ingredients, and get ready for an appetizer that’s as bold as the Lone Star State itself. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations!