Texas Twinkies Recipe

Jalapeños: Fresh, large jalapeños are used as the base for this recipe, providing a spicy kick and a sturdy vessel for the filling.

Brisket: Cooked and shredded brisket adds a rich, smoky flavor to the filling, making these appetizers hearty and satisfying.

Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese helps bind the filling together and adds a creamy texture that balances the heat of the jalapeños.

Bacon: Slices of bacon are wrapped around the stuffed jalapeños, adding a crispy, savory layer to each bite.

BBQ rub: A sprinkle of BBQ rub over the bacon-wrapped jalapeños enhances the overall flavor with a blend of spices.

When preparing the jalapeños, make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. This will prevent any accidental irritation, especially if you touch your face. Additionally, when removing the seeds and membranes, use a small spoon or a specialized pepper corer for a clean and efficient job. This ensures that the jalapeños are evenly hollowed out, making it easier to stuff them with the brisket and cream cheese mixture.

• jalapeños - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are milder than jalapeños but still provide a nice heat and flavor.

• jalapeños - Substitute with banana peppers: Banana peppers are also milder and have a slightly tangy flavor, making them a good alternative.

• brisket - Substitute with pulled pork: Pulled pork has a similar texture and smoky flavor, making it a suitable replacement for brisket.

• brisket - Substitute with shredded chicken: Shredded chicken can be used for a lighter, yet still flavorful, alternative to brisket.

• cream cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture, which can add a different but delicious twist.

• cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese is milder and less tangy but still provides a creamy texture.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still offers a smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is a thinly sliced, cured meat that can add a different but equally delicious flavor.

• bbq rub - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning provides a spicy, flavorful alternative to traditional BBQ rubs.

• bbq rub - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor similar to a BBQ rub.

• Allow the Texas Twinkies to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.

• Place the cooled Texas Twinkies in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the jalapeños fresh and the brisket flavorful.

• For longer storage, freeze the Texas Twinkies. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the Texas Twinkies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy.

• Alternatively, reheat in a microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to ensure even heating.

• Enjoy your Texas Twinkies as a quick snack or appetizer, maintaining their smoky, savory goodness even after storage.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cream cheese filling is heated through. This method ensures that the jalapeños retain their texture and the brisket remains juicy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the Texas Twinkies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. The air fryer will give you a crispy bacon exterior while keeping the jalapeños and brisket filling perfectly warmed.

• Microwave Method: Place the Texas Twinkies on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking after the first minute to avoid overheating. This method is quick but may result in a slightly less crispy bacon.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the Texas Twinkies on the grill grates and cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating. This method adds a smoky flavor and keeps the jalapeños and brisket filling deliciously warm.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the Texas Twinkies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bacon while warming the cream cheese and brisket filling.

• Smoker: Used to cook the jalapeños at a consistent low temperature, imparting a smoky flavor to the dish.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the jalapeños in half and removing the seeds and membranes.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the jalapeños.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the shredded brisket and cream cheese.

• Spoon: Helps in mixing the brisket and cream cheese together.

• Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around the stuffed jalapeños.

• Measuring spoons: Needed to measure out the bbq rub accurately.

• Tongs: Useful for placing the jalapeños in the smoker and removing them once cooked.

• Plate: For arranging the jalapeños before serving.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when handling hot items from the smoker.

Prepare the filling: Mix the shredded brisket and cream cheese in advance and store in the fridge.

Pre-cut jalapeños: Cut and deseed the jalapeños the night before to save time.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to reduce cooking time in the smoker.

Organize your workspace: Lay out all ingredients and tools before starting to streamline the process.

Batch process: Stuff and wrap all jalapeños at once to make the process more efficient.