Indulge in the ultimate Texan treat with our tantalizing Texas Twinkies recipe! Perfectly combining the fiery kick of jalapeños with the rich, smoky flavor of brisket, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Stuffed with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, smoked gouda, and tender brisket, each bite is a burst of savory goodness. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish step by step.
Ingredients:
- 12-16 extra-large jalapeños
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 1 lb smoked brisket
- 1 lb chorizo (optional)
- 2 cups smoked gouda, shredded
- ½ cup Jeff’s original rub
- 12-14 slices thick-cut bacon
- Jeff’s original sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the jalapeños:
- Slice a “T” shape into each jalapeño, cutting halfway through just below the stem, and then slit from the top of the “T” to the tip.
- Carefully remove the seeds and veins using a sharp knife, and rinse the peppers under cold water.
- Make the stuffing mixture:
- In a bowl, combine 2 cups of pulled brisket, softened cream cheese, shredded smoked gouda, and Jeff’s original rub. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy and flavorful stuffing.
- Stuff the peppers:
- Fill each jalapeño with the brisket and cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously stuffed for maximum flavor.
- Wrap with bacon:
- Take a slice of thick-cut bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño, securing it with a toothpick to hold it in place.
- Prepare the smoker:
- Set up your smoker for cooking at 225°F with indirect heat, using pecan wood for a rich smoky flavor. If your smoker has a water pan, be sure to fill it up.
- Smoke the Texas Twinkies:
- Place the prepared jalapeños directly on the grate and smoke them for approximately 3 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender to your liking.
- Glaze and finish:
- Once the Texas Twinkies are cooked to perfection, brush them with thinned barbecue sauce for a delicious glaze. Increase the heat to 350°F and cook for an additional 15 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Remove the Texas Twinkies from the smoker and serve them hot. Watch as your guests savor each spicy, smoky bite of this irresistible dish!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve Hot: Texas Twinkies are best enjoyed hot off the smoker, when the bacon is crispy and the filling is gooey and delicious. Arrange them on a platter and watch as your guests eagerly reach for seconds.
- Pair with Dipping Sauces: Enhance the flavor experience by serving Texas Twinkies with a variety of dipping sauces. Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli are all excellent choices to complement the smoky richness of the dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: Add a touch of flair to your presentation by garnishing the platter with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Not only does it make the dish look more appealing, but it also adds a hint of freshness to each bite.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you happen to have any leftovers (although they’re unlikely to last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying snack later on.
- Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Texas Twinkies can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be reheated from frozen in the oven or air fryer for a convenient treat anytime.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Texas Twinkies are always enjoyed to the fullest, whether you’re serving them at a party or savoring them as a delicious snack.
Variations:
- Spicy Chorizo Twist: For an extra kick of flavor, substitute the smoked brisket with spicy chorizo. The bold flavors of the chorizo will complement the heat of the jalapeños perfectly, adding a delicious twist to the traditional recipe.
- Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers: If you’re a cheese lover, amp up the cheesiness by mixing in different types of cheese into the filling. Try adding cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a melty, gooey center that will delight your taste buds.
- Vegetarian Option: Make a vegetarian-friendly version by omitting the meat entirely. Instead, fill the jalapeños with a mixture of cream cheese, shredded vegetables like zucchini or carrots, and your favorite seasonings for a tasty meat-free alternative.
- Sweet and Spicy Glaze: Experiment with different glazes to add a sweet and spicy element to the dish. Try brushing the Texas Twinkies with a mixture of honey and Sriracha or a pineapple barbecue sauce for a tantalizing flavor combination.
- Smoked Chicken Filling: Switch up the protein by using smoked chicken instead of brisket. Shred the smoked chicken and mix it with cream cheese and your favorite seasonings for a lighter yet equally delicious filling option.
- Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: For a luxurious twist, substitute the brisket filling with succulent shrimp. Wrap each shrimp in bacon before stuffing them into the jalapeños for a decadent appetizer that’s sure to impress.
- Asian Fusion Flavors: Infuse the Texas Twinkies with Asian-inspired flavors by adding ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the filling mixture. Serve them with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping to complete the fusion experience.
Get creative with these variations to customize the Texas Twinkies recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer spicy, cheesy, or vegetarian options, there’s a variation for everyone to enjoy!
FAQs:
- Can I adjust the spice level of the Texas Twinkies? Absolutely! You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeño seeds you remove before stuffing. For milder Twinkies, remove more seeds and veins, and for extra heat, leave some intact.
- Can I prepare Texas Twinkies in advance? Yes, you can assemble the Twinkies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to smoke them. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent the bacon from drying out.
- Do I need a smoker to make Texas Twinkies? While a smoker is preferred for that authentic smoky flavor, you can also bake the Twinkies in the oven at 225°F until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender. Just be sure to use wood chips or liquid smoke to add a smoky flavor.
- Can I use different types of cheese in the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses or a combination of cheeses to create a unique flavor profile. Just make sure they melt well and complement the other ingredients.
- What can I serve with Texas Twinkies? Texas Twinkies pair well with a variety of side dishes such as coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables. They also make a great appetizer alongside chips and dip or a charcuterie board.
- Can I freeze leftover Texas Twinkies? Yes, you can freeze leftover Twinkies for future enjoyment. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer until heated through.
- How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking? To ensure the bacon stays in place, make sure to wrap it tightly around the stuffed jalapeños and secure it with toothpicks. You can also partially cook the bacon before wrapping to help it hold its shape.
- Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce for glazing? Absolutely! While homemade barbecue sauce is delicious, store-bought varieties work just as well. Choose your favorite brand or flavor to customize the taste to your liking.
With its perfect blend of heat, smoke, and creamy richness, our Texas Twinkies recipe is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a flavor-packed snack, these jalapeño poppers stuffed with savory brisket are a surefire hit. So fire up the smoker and get ready to enjoy a taste of Texas with this irresistible dish!
