Texas Twinkies are the ultimate barbecue appetizer—spicy, smoky, cheesy, and wrapped in crispy bacon. These jalapeño poppers are taken to the next level with tender, smoky chopped brisket mixed with creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making them in the oven or smoking them low and slow, these flavor-packed bites are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Originating from Texas barbecue joints, Texas Twinkies have become a must-have for BBQ lovers. The combination of smoky brisket, rich cheeses, and the heat of fresh jalapeños creates a perfect balance of flavors. The bacon wrap not only adds a delicious crunch but also helps keep everything together while adding that irresistible crispy bite.
These stuffed jalapeños are easy to prepare and make an excellent appetizer for game day, backyard barbecues, or anytime you want to impress guests with a bold, savory treat. The best part? You can control the spice level by adjusting how much of the jalapeño’s seeds and ribs you remove.
Whether you’re a die-hard barbecue fan or just looking for a new way to enjoy jalapeños, this Texas Twinkies recipe is a must-try. Get ready to indulge in a smoky, cheesy, bacon-wrapped masterpiece!
Servings and Timing
Serves: 6-8
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 large jalapeños
- 1 ½ cups smoked brisket, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce (for glazing)
Instructions
- Prep the Jalapeños
Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat. If you prefer extra spice, leave some seeds intact. - Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped smoked brisket, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed and creamy. - Stuff & Wrap
Spoon the brisket filling into each jalapeño half, slightly mounding the mixture. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of thick-cut bacon, securing it with toothpicks if necessary. - Bake or Smoke
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
- Smoker Method: Set the smoker to 250°F (120°C). Place the jalapeños on the grate and smoke for about 1 hour until the bacon is crisp and the filling is heated through.
- Glaze & Finish
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush each jalapeño with BBQ sauce and return to the oven or smoker. Let the glaze caramelize slightly before removing. - Serve & Enjoy
Let the Texas Twinkies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with extra BBQ sauce for dipping!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the filling for an extra kick.
- Sweet & Savory: Sprinkle a little brown sugar on the bacon before baking for a sweet glaze.
- Meaty Twist: Swap the brisket for pulled pork or shredded chicken for a different barbecue flavor.
- Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of pepper jack cheese inside the jalapeño for even more cheesy goodness.
Tips
- Use Large Jalapeños: Bigger peppers are easier to stuff and wrap, preventing filling from spilling out.
- Crispy Bacon Trick: Baking the jalapeños on a wire rack helps the bacon cook evenly and crisp up better.
- Smoky Perfection: If smoking, use wood like hickory or mesquite for an authentic Texas BBQ flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prep the jalapeños and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking or smoking.
Texas Twinkies are a bold, flavor-packed appetizer that’s perfect for BBQ lovers. Smoky, cheesy, and wrapped in crispy bacon—these will be the first thing to disappear at your next gathering!
