🌶️ Jalapeño Cheddar Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Twists
These Jalapeño Cheddar Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Twists are flaky, golden, and filled with a creamy blend of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and fresh jalapeños. Easy to make and full of bold flavor, they’re the perfect appetizer for parties, game day, or holiday gatherings—crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and always a crowd favorite. 🌶️🧀🥐
Servings 14 twists
Calories 200kcal
Cost $7 per batch
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- knife or pizza cutter
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- pastry brush
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños finely diced
- remove seeds for mild, keep some seeds for heat
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional topping: sesame seeds everything bagel seasoning, or extra cheddar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle (about 10x12 inches).
- Spread the jalapeño cream cheese mixture evenly over half of the pastry.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and gently press to seal.
- Cut into ½–1 inch wide strips.
- Twist each strip several times and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Brush tops lightly with egg wash and sprinkle with optional toppings if using.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed, crisp, and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
-
Puff Pastry Handling:
Keep the puff pastry cold but pliable. If it becomes too warm while assembling, place it in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes before twisting. Cold pastry puffs higher and creates flakier layers. -
Jalapeño Prep:
Removing the seeds and membranes gives a mild, balanced heat. For medium heat, leave a few seeds in; for extra spice, add finely minced jalapeño seeds or a pinch of crushed red pepper. -
Cheese Choice:
Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the best flavor contrast against the cream cheese. Mild cheddar can taste flat once baked. -
Cream Cheese Texture:
Fully softened cream cheese ensures an even spread and prevents tearing the puff pastry. If needed, microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften. -
Filling Thickness:
Spread the filling in a thin, even layer. Too much filling can leak during baking and prevent the twists from crisping properly. -
Twist Size:
Cutting narrower strips (½ inch) creates crispier twists, while wider strips (1 inch) stay softer in the center. Choose based on your texture preference. -
Egg Wash Tip:
Brush lightly with egg wash—too much can weigh down the pastry and reduce puff. For extra shine, add a teaspoon of milk to the egg. -
Toppings:
Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or extra shredded cheddar add texture and visual appeal. Apply toppings after egg wash so they stick. -
Baking Placement:
Space twists at least 1½ inches apart. Puff pastry expands significantly in the oven and needs room to rise evenly. -
Make-Ahead & Storage:
Twists can be assembled, covered, and refrigerated up to 8 hours before baking. For leftovers, store in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. -
Serving Temperature:
Best served warm when the cheese is melty and the pastry is crisp, but they’re still delicious at room temperature for parties.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with ranch, honey mustard, or chipotle mayo
- Add a side of sour cream or jalapeño jelly for dipping
- Great on appetizer platters or alongside soups and salads