Spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Straws

Looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping appetizer that’s a breeze to make? Look no further than these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws. This recipe is the perfect combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon all twisted together into irresistible golden twists. The best part? They taste just like jalapeno poppers but in a fun and elegant form that will have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, they come together in no time!

I stumbled upon these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws during a dinner party emergency and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The way the cream cheese, pickled jalapenos, and three types of grated cheese meld together inside the crispy puff pastry is pure magic. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, game day get-together, or holiday feast, these puff pastry twists will steal the show. They pair perfectly with your favorite drinks and are guaranteed to disappear within minutes. Trust me, once you try these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws, they’ll become your go-to appetizer for any occasion!

Quick Benefits

• Easy and Quick: Impressively fancy appetizer that takes only 30 minutes to make.
• Versatile: Perfect for various occasions like cocktail parties, game day gatherings, or holiday spreads.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of crispy pastry, creamy filling, spicy jalapenos, and melted cheese appeals to everyone.
• Make-Ahead: Hold up well at room temperature for about an hour, ideal for buffets and entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Straws Recipe

• Incredibly Easy to Make: This recipe uses store-bought puff pastry as a base, making it a breeze to put together.
• Impressively Delicious: The combination of cream cheese, pickled jalapenos, bacon, and three types of cheese creates a flavor explosion that tastes just like jalapeno poppers but in a more elegant form.
• Perfect for Entertaining: These puff pastry straws are ideal for cocktail parties, game day gatherings, or holiday spreads. They are a crowd-pleaser and pair well with cocktails, beer, or wine.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can customize this recipe by adjusting the level of spiciness with the jalapenos or adding other ingredients like different types of cheese or herbs.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of total prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for when you need to whip up something impressive in a short amount of time.
• Highly Addictive: The crispy pastry, creamy filling, and melted cheese make these puff pastry twists irresistible. They are always the first to disappear from the appetizer table.
• Make Ahead Friendly: These straws can be made in advance and hold up well at room temperature, allowing you to focus on other party preparations.

Ingredients for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Straws

Main Ingredients

• 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated and divided
• 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, grated and divided
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated and divided
• 1 egg, whisked
• 1/2 cup pickled jalapenos, finely chopped

How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Straws

Step 1: Get Ready to Bake

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (use fan bake setting, if available). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and roll out puff pastry on it. Optionally, use a rolling pin to slightly extend the pastry for more workspace.

Step 2: Add the Toppings

Evenly spread cream cheese on the pastry. Scatter chopped pickled jalapenos and bacon on the top half of the pastry only, spreading to the edges. Sprinkle half of cheddar, Gruyere, and parmesan cheese over the jalapenos and bacon.

Step 3: Fold and Slice

Fold the uncovered half of the pastry over the filled half and press gently to seal. Make small marks 3/4 inch apart along the folded edge. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into strips following the marked lines.

Step 4: Twist the Straws

Take one pastry strip, twist it to form a spiral straw shape, and place it on a baking sheet. Repeat with remaining strips, tucking any filling back in as needed.

Step 5: Add More Cheese

Brush each twisted straw with the whisked egg, then generously sprinkle the remaining cheese over them.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, checking and rotating halfway through for even cooking. Look for a deep golden color and crispy texture. Once done, remove from the oven and let sit on the tray for 5 minutes to crisp up further.

Step 7: Serve

Place the cheese straws on a serving platter and serve warm with garlic aioli or gochujang aioli for dipping, if desired.

Storage Tips

Once the Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws are baked and still warm, it is best to pile them on a wooden board or a large platter for serving. These twists are perfect for various occasions like cocktail parties, game day gatherings, or holiday spreads, and they pair well with cocktails, beer, or wine. They can be enjoyed at room temperature for about an hour, making them ideal for buffets where guests can help themselves.

To store any leftover Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the twists on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until heated through. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but with proper storage and reheating, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of these puff pastry twists even after they have been made ahead.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are looking to make a vegetarian version of these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws, you can easily omit the bacon without compromising the overall flavor. You can add some extra seasonings like smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor that the bacon would have provided.

For a milder version, if you don’t have pickled jalapenos on hand or prefer a less spicy kick, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers or mild green chilies. These alternatives will still provide a nice flavor contrast to the cheeses and cream cheese filling without the heat from the jalapenos. Additionally, if you don’t have Gruyere cheese, you can use another melty cheese like mozzarella or Swiss as a substitute. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the other flavors in the puff pastry straws.

Serving Suggestions

For a visually appealing presentation, serve these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh jalapeno slices and crispy bacon bits. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or sweet chili sauce to add an extra layer of flavor and customization for your guests. These twists are perfect for casual gatherings, cocktail parties, or even as a fun snack for a cozy night in.

To elevate the serving experience, create a DIY “Twisted Puff Pastry Bar” where guests can customize their own puff pastry twists with additional toppings like caramelized onions, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky kick. Set out small bowls of different cheeses for guests to mix and match, allowing them to create their own unique flavor combinations. Not only does this interactive setup add a fun element to your gathering, but it also ensures that everyone gets to enjoy their twist just the way they like it.

FAQs for Spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Straws

Can I use fresh jalapenos instead of pickled jalapenos?

You can use fresh jalapenos instead of pickled ones in this recipe. Just make sure to finely chop them to ensure even distribution of flavor in the pastry straws.

Can I prepare the puff pastry twists in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the puff pastry twists in advance by assembling them and keeping them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This can be helpful for planning ahead when hosting a party.

Can I freeze the unbaked puff pastry twists for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked puff pastry twists for later use. Simply assemble the twists, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve alongside these jalapeno popper puff pastry twists?

These twists pair beautifully with cocktails, beer, or wine. You can also serve them with a side of salsa, sour cream, or a creamy dip to complement the flavors of the jalapeno poppers.

Conclusion

I hope you give these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures they offer. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a cozy night in, or simply looking to impress your guests with minimal effort, these puff pastry twists are sure to be a hit.

Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free, so don’t worry if things don’t always go perfectly. Embrace the process and enjoy the delicious results. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws, and watch them disappear within minutes at your next gathering. Happy cooking!

Spicy Jalapeno Popper Cheese Straws

“Transform store-bought puff pastry into elegant Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws for a quick, impressive appetizer that vanishes from the table.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (12 cheese straws)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated and divided
• 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, grated and divided
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated and divided
• 1 egg, whisked
• 1/2 cup pickled jalapenos, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Get Ready to Bake: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (use fan bake setting, if available). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and roll out puff pastry on it. Optionally, use a rolling pin to slightly extend the pastry for more workspace.
2. Add the Toppings: Evenly spread cream cheese on the pastry. Scatter chopped pickled jalapenos and bacon on the top half of the pastry only, spreading to the edges. Sprinkle half of cheddar, Gruyere, and parmesan cheese over the jalapenos and bacon.
3. Fold and Slice: Fold the uncovered half of the pastry over the filled half and press gently to seal. Make small marks 3/4 inch apart along the folded edge. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into strips following the marked lines.
4. Twist the Straws: Take one pastry strip, twist it to form a spiral straw shape, and place it on a baking sheet. Repeat with remaining strips, tucking any filling back in as needed.
5. Add More Cheese: Brush each twisted straw with the whisked egg, then generously sprinkle the remaining cheese over them.
6. Bake Until Golden: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, checking and rotating halfway through for even cooking. Look for a deep golden color and crispy texture. Once done, remove from the oven and let sit on the tray for 5 minutes to crisp up further.
7. Serve: Place the cheese straws on a serving platter and serve warm with garlic aioli or gochujang aioli for dipping, if desired.