Texas Twinkies Recipe

Jalapeños: Fresh, large jalapeños are used as the base for this recipe, providing a spicy kick and a crunchy texture.

Brisket: Chopped brisket adds a smoky, savory flavor to the filling. You can use leftover brisket or purchase it from a deli.

Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is mixed with the brisket to create a creamy, rich filling for the jalapeños.

Bacon: Each stuffed jalapeño is wrapped in a slice of bacon, which crisps up during smoking and adds a salty, savory element.

BBQ sauce: Brushing the jalapeños with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking adds a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the smoky flavors.

When preparing the jalapeños, make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils. To ensure even cooking, choose jalapeños that are similar in size. When mixing the chopped brisket and cream cheese, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth and well-combined filling. For the bacon, use thin slices as they will crisp up better in the smoker. If the bacon is too thick, it may remain chewy. When brushing on the bbq sauce, use a silicone brush for even application and to avoid bristles getting stuck on the jalapeños.

• jalapeños - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are milder and larger, making them easier to stuff and handle.

• jalapeños - Substitute with banana peppers: Banana peppers have a similar texture but are less spicy, suitable for those who prefer a milder heat.

• chopped brisket - Substitute with pulled pork: Pulled pork has a similar smoky flavor and texture, making it a good alternative.

• chopped brisket - Substitute with shredded chicken: Shredded chicken can provide a leaner option while still offering a good texture for stuffing.

• cream cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture that can add a unique twist to the dish.

• cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese is milder and can provide a similar creamy consistency.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is thinly sliced and can offer a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce can add a sweet and savory flavor, offering a different but complementary taste.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with hot sauce: Hot sauce can provide a spicier kick, suitable for those who enjoy more heat.

• Allow the Texas Twinkies to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• Place the cooled jalapeños in an airtight container. If stacking them, use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the bacon remains crispy and the cream cheese filling stays fresh.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Lay the Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the jalapeños to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the Texas Twinkies in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon soggy.
• For an extra burst of flavor, brush with additional bbq sauce before reheating. This enhances the smoky, savory taste of the brisket and cream cheese mixture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the leftover Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cream cheese filling is heated through.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the Texas Twinkies on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F. Arrange the Texas Twinkies in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot.

• For a smoky flavor, reheat on a grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the Texas Twinkies on the grill grates and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the brisket filling is warmed through.

• Use a skillet for stovetop reheating. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the Texas Twinkies and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot.

• Smoker: Used to cook the jalapeños at a consistent temperature of 275°F, imparting a smoky flavor.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the jalapeños in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and membranes.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the chopped brisket and softened cream cheese until well mixed.

• Spoon: Handy for stuffing each jalapeño half with the brisket and cream cheese mixture.

• Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around each stuffed jalapeño half.

• Basting brush: Ideal for brushing the jalapeños with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for cutting the jalapeños.

• Tongs: Useful for placing the wrapped jalapeños on the smoker and removing them once cooked.

• Measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurement of the chopped brisket and BBQ sauce.

• Mixing spoon: Helps in mixing the brisket and cream cheese thoroughly in the bowl.

Prepare the filling ahead: Mix the chopped brisket and cream cheese the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to reduce the smoking time and ensure it crisps up faster.

Preheat the smoker early: Start preheating your smoker while you prepare the jalapeños to streamline the process.

Batch process jalapeños: Cut and deseed all jalapeños at once to make stuffing them quicker.

Use a piping bag: Fill a piping bag with the brisket and cream cheese mixture for faster and cleaner stuffing.