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Texas Twinkies (Cream Cheese and Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos)
4.50 from 2 votes
Texas Twinkies (Cream Cheese and Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos) are a mouthwatering, classic American snack. They take just 30 minutes to make and are packed full of spicy and savory flavor.
Start by removing the top part of the jalapeno. Then, with a sharp paring knife, make a straight cut along the back of the jalapeno (usually the flat side). Finally, use your fingers to separate and open up the pepper.
Take your paring knife and carefully remove the seeds from the jalapeno. If you prefer to keep a slight level of heat in the jalapeno, retain the white rib section and discard only the seeds.
Clean your jalapenos by rinsing them under water and washing away any seeds.
With a butter knife, fill half of the jalapeno's interior with cream cheese, making sure to use enough to help the brisket adhere and stay intact.
After filling the jalapenos with cream cheese, proceed to incorporate the brisket. Fill each jalapeno with shredded or chopped brisket.
Place a slice of thick cut bacon on a flat surface.
Start by attaching the bacon to the jalapeno using a toothpick, beginning on one side. Proceed to wrap the bacon around the jalapeno and use another toothpick to secure the opposite end.
To cook, arrange them on a baking sheet, preferably on a wire rack with a baking sheet underneath to collect any drippings. Cook for 20-30 minutes until the bacon is fully cooked and reaches your desired level of doneness.
Christina's Notes
Cheese Filling Flavor: Add seasoning to the cream cheese like chili powder, Meat Church BBQ rub, cumin or smoked paprika. You can also mix in crumbled bacon or even some caramelized onions into the smoked cream cheese.
Bacon Wrapping Technique: Stretch the bacon slightly before wrapping it around the jalapeño. Overlap the bacon slightly to ensure good coverage.
Securing the Bacon: As mentioned above, toothpicks are an option, but you can also try weaving the bacon or tucking the end under itself.
Cooking Temperature: Bake at a moderate temperature (around 375°F) to allow the bacon to render and the jalapeños to soften without burning.
Don't Overcook: Cook for about 20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender, but not mushy for the perfect bite.
Cheese: Combine the cream cheese brisket mixture with shredded cheese. Try different kinds such as shredded cheddar, shredded smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese.
Alternate Cooking Method: Jalapeño and poblano peppers are super easy to cook on the grill. Wrap bacon around the peppers and grill on indirect heat until done.