Texas Twinkies are a mouthwatering BBQ delicacy that combines the smoky flavors of brisket with the spicy kick of jalapeños, all wrapped in crispy bacon. Originating from the heart of Texas BBQ culture, these stuffed jalapeños have gained immense popularity for their unique blend of flavors and textures.
The origins of Texas Twinkies are rooted in the creativity of pitmasters looking to utilize leftover brisket in a delicious and innovative way. By combining brisket with cream cheese and smoked gouda, and then wrapping the mixture in jalapeños and bacon, they’ve created a dish that’s both savory and slightly spicy. This fusion has made Texas Twinkies a staple at BBQs and a popular appetizer across the country.
Ingredients and Equipment
Creating the perfect Texas Twinkies requires a combination of specific ingredients and essential cooking equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable dish:
Ingredients:
- Jalapeños: 12-16 extra-large jalapeños. These will be the main vessel for your stuffing.
- Smoked Brisket: 1 lb, pulled or chopped. The star ingredient that adds a deep, smoky flavor.
- Cream Cheese: 16 ounces, softened. This adds a creamy texture to the stuffing.
- Smoked Gouda: 2 cups, shredded. For an extra layer of smoky, cheesy goodness.
- Chorizo (optional): 1 lb, cooked and crumbled. Adds a spicy, savory element if you choose to include it.
- Bacon: 12-14 slices, thick-cut. Wrapped around each jalapeño for a crispy, flavorful finish.
- BBQ Rub: ½ cup of your favorite BBQ rub to season the stuffing mixture.
- BBQ Sauce: Jeff’s original sauce or any preferred BBQ sauce for glazing the finished Twinkies.
Recommended Equipment:
- Smoker: Essential for imparting that authentic smoky flavor. Pecan wood is recommended for smoking, as it complements the brisket and bacon flavors well.
- Knife: A sharp, thin knife for cutting and deseeding the jalapeños.
- Toothpicks: To secure the bacon around the stuffed jalapeños, ensuring everything stays in place during cooking.
- Mixing Bowls: Several bowls for mixing the stuffing ingredients and preparing the jalapeños.
Having the right equipment and ingredients is crucial to achieving the best results. A smoker is particularly important for that authentic BBQ taste, but alternatives like an oven or grill can also be used. Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, especially the smoked brisket and bacon, to maximize flavor. The combination of these elements creates a rich, savory, and slightly spicy appetizer that’s perfect for any BBQ or gathering.
Preparing the Jalapeños
Steps for Cutting and Cleaning Jalapeños:
- Select and Wash: Start by selecting 12-16 extra-large jalapeños. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residues.
- Cutting: Using a sharp knife, cut a “T” shape into each jalapeño. Make a horizontal cut just below the stem, and then a vertical slit from the top of the “T” to the tip of the pepper. This allows you to open the jalapeño without cutting it completely in half.
- Deseeding: Carefully pry open the jalapeño and use the knife or a small spoon to remove the seeds and veins. This step is crucial as the seeds and veins contain most of the pepper’s heat. Rinse the inside of the jalapeños under cold water to remove any remaining seeds.
Tips for Handling Spicy Peppers Safely:
- Wear Gloves: Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which can irritate the skin and eyes. Wearing disposable gloves while handling and cutting the peppers can prevent this irritation.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: While working with jalapeños, avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation in these sensitive areas.
- Use a Jalapeño Corer: A specialized tool like a jalapeño corer can make the deseeding process easier and more efficient, reducing the risk of handling the spicy parts directly.
- Wash Hands Thoroughly: After handling the peppers, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and water to help neutralize the capsaicin.
- Clean Cutting Surfaces: Ensure that all cutting boards, knives, and other surfaces that came into contact with the jalapeños are cleaned thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination.
Making the Stuffing
Instructions for Preparing the Stuffing Mixture:
- Gather Ingredients: Start with 16 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 lb of pulled or chopped smoked brisket, and 2 cups of shredded smoked gouda.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, smoked brisket, and shredded gouda. If using, add 1 lb of cooked and crumbled chorizo for an extra layer of flavor.
- Season: Add ½ cup of your favorite BBQ rub to the mixture. This will enhance the smoky and savory flavors of the stuffing.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a spatula or a large spoon to mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Ensure that the brisket and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
Variations of the Stuffing with Optional Ingredients:
- Chorizo: For a spicier, richer flavor, incorporate 1 lb of cooked and crumbled chorizo into the stuffing mixture. This adds a savory and slightly spicy element that complements the brisket well.
- Different Cheeses: Instead of smoked gouda, you can use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even pepper jack for added spice. Each type of cheese will bring a unique flavor profile to the stuffing.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace the brisket with a mixture of smoked vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Combine these with the cream cheese and your choice of shredded cheese.
Mixing Techniques to Ensure Even Distribution of Ingredients:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to combine with the other ingredients smoothly.
- Gradual Mixing: Add the ingredients gradually into the mixing bowl. Start with the cream cheese, then add the brisket, followed by the shredded cheese and BBQ rub. This helps in achieving a more even distribution.
- Use a Stand Mixer: If available, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to mix the ingredients. This ensures that the mixture is thoroughly combined and the brisket is evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
- Hand Mixing: If mixing by hand, use a large spoon or spatula and fold the ingredients together. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to incorporate all the elements evenly.
Stuffing the Peppers
Detailed Guide on How to Stuff the Jalapeños:
- Prepare Jalapeños: After cutting and cleaning the jalapeños as described earlier, ensure they are thoroughly dried. This helps the stuffing adhere better.
- Fill the Jalapeños: Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each jalapeño with the prepared stuffing mixture. Start by gently opening the slit in the jalapeño and inserting the filling. Make sure to press the stuffing down to fill the entire cavity of the jalapeño.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Fill the jalapeños just enough to close the slit slightly but not so much that the filling overflows. This prevents the mixture from leaking out during cooking.
Tips for Ensuring the Stuffing Stays Inside the Peppers During Cooking:
- Use a Piping Bag: Using a piping bag to fill the jalapeños can help control the amount of stuffing and ensure it is evenly distributed inside the peppers.
- Secure with Toothpicks: After stuffing, use a toothpick to close the slit in each jalapeño. This helps keep the stuffing in place during cooking and prevents it from spilling out.
- Wrap Tightly with Bacon: The bacon wrap acts as a barrier to keep the stuffing inside. Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the jalapeño, covering the slit and securing it with toothpicks at both ends if necessary.
- Chill Before Cooking: Once stuffed and wrapped, place the jalapeños in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This firms up the stuffing and helps it stay in place during cooking.
Wrapping with Bacon
How to Properly Wrap the Stuffed Jalapeños with Bacon:
- Prepare the Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for the best results. Thin bacon may cook too quickly and not provide enough support for the jalapeño. Stretch each slice of bacon slightly to make it easier to wrap.
- Wrap the Jalapeños: Starting at the stem end, place the jalapeño on one end of the bacon slice. Begin wrapping the bacon around the jalapeño, slightly overlapping each layer as you go. Make sure to cover the entire jalapeño, including the slit, to keep the stuffing inside.
- Overlap Ends: When you reach the end of the jalapeño, ensure the bacon overlaps slightly. This overlap helps secure the bacon in place and provides a uniform wrap.
Securing the Bacon with Toothpicks to Maintain Shape During Cooking:
- Toothpick Placement: Insert a toothpick through the bacon and jalapeño at both the top and bottom ends. This will help keep the bacon in place during cooking and prevent it from unraveling.
- Additional Securing: For larger jalapeños or if the bacon slice is particularly long, you might need to add an extra toothpick in the middle to ensure the bacon stays tightly wrapped around the jalapeño.
- Check for Stability: Once wrapped and secured, check that the bacon is snug and the toothpicks are firmly in place. This ensures that the jalapeños will maintain their shape and the stuffing will remain inside while cooking.
Cooking Methods
Smoking: Setting Up the Smoker, Recommended Wood Types, and Smoking Times
- Setting Up the Smoker: Begin by preparing your smoker for indirect cooking at a temperature of 225°F (107°C). Ensure the water pan is filled if your smoker has one, as this helps maintain moisture during the smoking process.
- Recommended Wood Types: For the best flavor, use pecan wood, which imparts a subtle, sweet, and nutty flavor that complements the smoky brisket and bacon. Other good options include hickory or apple wood, which add a slightly different but equally delicious smoky profile.
- Smoking Times: Place the wrapped jalapeños directly on the smoker grate. Smoke them for approximately 3 hours, or until the bacon has a good bite-through texture and the jalapeños are tender. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld perfectly while ensuring the bacon crisps up nicely.
Alternative Cooking Methods: Baking in the Oven or Grilling
- Baking in the Oven:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Baking Process: Place the wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with a wire rack to allow even cooking. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
- Finishing Touch: For extra crispiness, you can broil the jalapeños for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Grilling:
- Preparation: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, setting up for indirect grilling if possible.
- Grilling Process: Place the jalapeños on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct flames. Grill for about 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and the jalapeños are cooked through.
- Smoke Flavor: To add a smoky flavor on a gas grill, use a smoker box filled with wood chips or a foil pouch with holes to allow the smoke to escape.
How to Achieve the Perfect Balance of Smoky Flavor and Crispy Bacon
- Consistent Temperature: Maintaining a consistent temperature, whether smoking, baking, or grilling, is crucial for even cooking and achieving a balance of smoky flavor and crispy bacon.
- Wood Choice: The type of wood you choose significantly impacts the flavor. Pecan and apple wood provide a balanced smoke that enhances the brisket without overpowering it.
- Proper Wrapping: Ensuring the bacon is tightly wrapped around the jalapeños helps it cook evenly and crisp up properly. The use of toothpicks to secure the bacon ensures it stays in place and cooks uniformly.
- Timing and Monitoring: Regularly check the jalapeños during the cooking process. For smoking, the low and slow method (225°F for about 3 hours) is ideal. For baking or grilling, adjust the heat towards the end if needed to crisp the bacon perfectly without burning it.
Glazing and Finishing Touches
Instructions for Glazing the Texas Twinkies with BBQ Sauce:
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: Thin your favorite BBQ sauce slightly by mixing it with a bit of water or apple cider vinegar. This ensures it spreads evenly and soaks into the bacon.
- Apply the Glaze: When the Texas Twinkies are almost done cooking (about 10-15 minutes before the end), brush the BBQ sauce generously over each jalapeño. Make sure to cover all sides to get a nice, even coating.
- Increase the Heat: For the final step, increase the heat of your smoker or oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps to set the glaze and further crisp up the bacon. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and becomes sticky.
Additional Garnishes and Presentation Tips:
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro over the finished Texas Twinkies for a burst of color and freshness.
- Sliced Jalapeños: Add a few thin slices of fresh jalapeños on top for an extra kick and visual appeal.
- Serving Platter: Arrange the Texas Twinkies on a large serving platter, garnished with lime wedges for a touch of acidity that can balance the richness of the dish.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or honey mustard to complement the flavors and offer guests a choice.
- Garnish with Cheese: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle some additional shredded smoked gouda or cheddar over the top while the Twinkies are still hot.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Accompaniments for Texas Twinkies:
Texas Twinkies are a versatile appetizer that pairs well with a variety of sides and main dishes. Here are some ideal accompaniments to enhance your BBQ spread:
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. The freshness and slight char of the veggies complement the rich flavors of the Twinkies.
- Cornbread: A classic BBQ side, cornbread offers a sweet contrast to the smoky, spicy jalapeños and brisket. Try a jalapeño cornbread for an extra kick.
- Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy flavors of coleslaw provide a refreshing balance to the hearty, savory Twinkies. A vinegar-based slaw can cut through the richness, while a creamy slaw adds a different texture.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can be a satisfying side, adding a cool, creamy element to the plate.
Suggested Sauces and Dips:
- Ranch Dressing: The cool, creamy nature of ranch dressing pairs perfectly with the spicy jalapeños, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Spicy Aioli: A homemade spicy aioli, made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of sriracha, can add an extra layer of heat and flavor.
- Honey Mustard: The sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard complements the smoky and savory notes of the brisket and bacon.
- BBQ Sauce: Offer a variety of BBQ sauces, such as a classic smoky BBQ, a tangy Carolina mustard BBQ, or a sweet and spicy BBQ sauce. These can enhance the flavors of the Texas Twinkies and provide guests with options to suit their taste.
FAQs
How to Store and Reheat Texas Twinkies?
Storing: After cooking, let the Texas Twinkies cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled Twinkies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture of the bacon. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake refrigerated Twinkies for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake for 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but the bacon may not stay as crisp.
Can Texas Twinkies Be Made in Advance?
Yes, Texas Twinkies can be prepared in advance, which makes them an excellent choice for entertaining. Follow these steps:
Preparation: Assemble the Twinkies by stuffing the jalapeños and wrapping them in bacon. Place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
Freezing: For longer storage, assemble the Twinkies and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, you can bake or smoke them directly from frozen, just add extra cooking time as needed.
What Are Good Substitutes for Smoked Brisket?
If you don’t have smoked brisket, there are several excellent substitutes that can still provide a delicious result:
- Pulled Pork: Smoked pulled pork is a great alternative that offers a similar smoky flavor and tender texture. Simply shred the pork and mix it with the other stuffing ingredients.
- Smoked Chicken: Shredded smoked chicken can be used in place of brisket. It has a milder flavor but still pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Ground Beef: Cooked ground beef seasoned with a bit of BBQ rub can also work as a substitute. It won’t have the same smoky depth as brisket, but it’s a convenient and tasty option.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use a mix of smoked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Combine them with the cheese mixture for a flavorful stuffing
Jalapeños Stuffed with Smoked Brisket
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Texas Twinkies are a delectable BBQ appetizer that brings together the best of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. These treats consist of large jalapeños stuffed with a creamy mixture of smoked brisket and cheeses, wrapped in bacon, and cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
- Handling Jalapeños: Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from the capsaicin. This will also prevent accidental transfer to sensitive areas like your eyes.
- Even Stuffing: Ensure the stuffing is evenly distributed in the jalapeños by using a piping bag or spoon. This guarantees a uniform taste and texture in each bite.
- Smoking: Smoking at a low temperature (225°F) for about 3 hours imparts a rich, smoky flavor while ensuring the bacon becomes crispy. Using woods like pecan or apple enhances the taste.
- Oven and Grilling Alternatives: If a smoker isn’t available, baking or grilling at 375°F for 25-30 minutes also works well. For a smoky flavor on the grill, use a smoker box with wood chips
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- Texas Twinkies can be prepped in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes them convenient for party planning or weeknight dinners.
- To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain the bacon’s crispiness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair these spicy treats with cooling sides like coleslaw or a creamy potato salad. Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy aioli, or honey mustard to complement the flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
