👇Texas Twinkies

Texas Twinkies: Smoky, Spicy, and Irresistibly Delicious

Indulge in the ultimate fusion of smoky brisket, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeños with these Texas Twinkies. Perfect for game days, barbecues, or a hearty appetizer, these stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon offer an explosion of flavors with each bite. The combination of smoked brisket and gouda cheese creates a rich, savory filling, while the jalapeños add a spicy kick that’s balanced by the crispy bacon. Get ready to impress your guests with this crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients Overview

Extra-Large Jalapeños (12-16)

• Choose large, firm jalapeños to ensure ample space for the delicious filling.

Cream Cheese (16 oz., softened)

• Provides a creamy, tangy base that binds the stuffing together.

Smoked Brisket (1 lb, pulled)

• Adds a smoky, savory depth to the filling. Leftover brisket works perfectly.

Chorizo (1 lb, optional)

• For an extra layer of flavor and spice, mix in some chorizo.

Smoked Gouda (2 cups, shredded)

• Offers a rich, smoky flavor that complements the brisket.

Jeff’s Original Rub (1/2 cup)

• A versatile spice blend that enhances the overall flavor of the filling.

Thick-Cut Bacon (12-14 slices)

• Wraps the jalapeños, adding a crispy, savory outer layer.

Jeff’s Original Sauce

• For a flavorful glaze that ties everything together.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeños:

1. Cut the Peppers: Cut a “T” into each jalapeño by slicing halfway through the pepper just below the stem, then cutting a slit from the top of the “T” to the tip of the pepper.
2. Deseed and Devein: Carefully pry open the pepper and remove the seeds and veins with a thin, sharp knife. Rinse under cold water to remove any remaining seeds.

Make the Stuffing: 3. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together 2 cups of pulled brisket, 16 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 cups of shredded smoked gouda, and 1/2 cup of Jeff’s original rub. Ensure the ingredients are well combined to create a uniform stuffing.

Stuff the Peppers: 4. Fill the Jalapeños: Stuff each jalapeño with the prepared mixture, making sure they are evenly filled but not overstuffed.

Wrap with Bacon: 5. Wrap the Peppers: Stretch a slice of thick-cut bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño. Use toothpicks to secure the bacon if necessary.

Prepare the Smoker: 6. Set Up the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using indirect heat. Add pecan wood for a delicious smoke flavor. If your smoker has a water pan, fill it to maintain moisture.

Cook the Peppers: 7. Smoke the Jalapeños: Place the stuffed jalapeños directly on the smoker grate and cook for about 3 hours, or until the bacon has a good bite-through texture and the peppers are tender to your liking.

Glaze and Finish: 8. Apply the Glaze: Once the peppers are ready, brush them with a thin layer of Jeff’s original sauce. Increase the smoker temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for an additional 15 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

Serve: 9. Enjoy Immediately: Serve the Texas Twinkies hot, right off the smoker, as a mouth-watering appetizer or snack. Revel in the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed, uncooked jalapeños. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating:

• Reheat refrigerated Texas Twinkies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as above.

Helpful Tips for Enhancing the Recipe

Use Fresh Jalapeños: Ensure your jalapeños are fresh and firm for the best texture and flavor.

Adjust the Spice Level: Remove more seeds and veins for a milder taste, or leave some in for extra heat.

Pre-Cook the Bacon: Slightly cook the bacon before wrapping to ensure it becomes crispy during smoking.

Quality Cheese: Use high-quality smoked gouda for the best flavor impact.

Mixing the Filling: Use a stand mixer for a smoother, more evenly mixed filling.

Sturdy Toothpicks: Use sturdy toothpicks or metal skewers to keep the bacon securely wrapped.

Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the jalapeños to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Monitor the Smoker Temperature: Keep a close eye on the smoker temperature to ensure even cooking.

Glaze Generously: Don’t be afraid to apply a generous amount of sauce for a rich, caramelized finish.

Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the peppers to rest for a few minutes after smoking to let the flavors meld.

Popular Questions and Answers

How do I choose the right jalapeños?

• Look for large, firm, and glossy jalapeños. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapeños ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to smoke.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a smoker?

• Yes, you can bake them in an oven at 225°F (107°C) and use a smoke flavoring like liquid smoke.

What if I don’t have Jeff’s original rub?

• You can substitute with any favorite barbecue rub or spice blend.

Can I use a different cheese?

• Absolutely, cheddar or Monterey Jack are great alternatives to smoked gouda.

How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling?

• Secure the bacon with toothpicks or wrap tightly to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.

What type of wood is best for smoking?

• Pecan wood is recommended for its mild, nutty flavor, but hickory or applewood also work well.

Can I omit the chorizo?

• Yes, the recipe is delicious with or without the chorizo. It adds extra flavor but is not essential.

How do I get the bacon crispy?

• Pre-cooking the bacon slightly or increasing the heat at the end of smoking helps achieve a crispy texture.

What if my filling leaks out?

• Ensure you don’t overstuff the jalapeños and wrap the bacon securely to minimize leakage.

Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection

Choose Quality Ingredients: Start with the best ingredients you can find for superior flavor.

Consistent Slicing: Cut the jalapeños consistently to ensure even cooking.

Proper Filling Technique: Fill the jalapeños evenly without overstuffing to prevent leaks.

Bacon Wrapping: Wrap the bacon tightly and secure with toothpicks to keep everything in place.

Monitor Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the smoker and adjust cooking times as needed based on your equipment.

Even Smoking: Arrange the jalapeños in a single layer with space between them for even smoke distribution.

Flavorful Rub: Use a flavorful rub that complements the ingredients without overpowering them.

Perfect Glaze: Apply the glaze in the last 15 minutes for a deliciously caramelized finish.

Resting Time: Let the jalapeños rest for a few minutes after smoking to enhance flavor.

Serve Fresh: Serve the Texas Twinkies hot and fresh for the best taste and texture.

Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, spices, and sauces to make the recipe your own.

With these tips and instructions, you’re ready to create the most delectable Texas Twinkies that will wow your guests and become a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of these smoky, spicy, and creamy delights