The filling is what a jalapeño popper holds: softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar and two fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped, with garlic powder and salt.
A sheet of puff pastry is cut into twelve strips. Each gets a thin layer of filling, is folded lengthwise to enclose it and twisted several times, then brushed with egg and baked for 18 to 22 minutes.
How to Make It
Sheet lined
Heat oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan.
Filling mixed
Mix the cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeño, garlic powder and salt.
Pastry cut
Roll the puff pastry lightly and cut into 12 strips.
Filled and twisted
Spread a thin layer of filling along each strip, fold the strip lengthwise to enclose the filling, then twist several times.
Egg washed
Arrange on the sheet pan and brush with the beaten egg.
Baked
Bake 18 to 22 minutes until puffed and deeply golden. Cool 5 minutes before serving.
Making One Twist
The sheet is cut into twelve strips; each is filled the same way.
What goes into one twist
Pastry strip
One of twelve cut from the sheet.
Filling
A thin layer spread along its length.
Fold and twist
Folded over lengthwise, then twisted several times.
Egg wash
Brushed on before baking.
Bake 18 to 22 minutes at 400°F and rest 5 minutes.
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh jalapeños
- Two, seeded and finely chopped.
- Cream cheese and sharp cheddar
- Six ounces of cream cheese and three-quarters of a cup of cheddar.
- Puff pastry
- One sheet, thawed but still cold so it cuts cleanly.
Success Tips
- Keep the pastry cold; chill it for ten minutes if it softens while you twist.
- Pinch each end firmly so the twists do not unwind.
- Space them apart on the pan so the sides can puff.
Why This Recipe Works
- Folding the strip over the filling keeps most of the cheese inside.
- Twisting exposes some filling, which browns in the oven.
- An egg wash gives the pastry its deep colour.
- Seeding the jalapeños keeps the heat moderate.
Serving Ideas
Stack them on a plate warm, after the five-minute rest.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate
They are crispest on the day; reheat leftovers in a hot oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there bacon in these?
No. The filling is cream cheese, cheddar and jalapeño.
How spicy are they?
Moderate, because the jalapeños are seeded before chopping.
