Texas Twinkies Recipe

Jalapeños: Fresh, large jalapeños are the base for this recipe, providing a spicy kick and a sturdy vessel for the filling.

Brisket: Chopped, cooked brisket adds a smoky, savory depth to the filling mixture.

Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese helps bind the filling together and adds a creamy texture.

Bacon: Slices of bacon are wrapped around the stuffed jalapeños, adding a crispy, salty layer.

BBQ sauce: Brushed on during the final minutes of smoking, BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy glaze to the finished product.

When preparing the jalapeños, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes thoroughly. This not only reduces the heat but also creates more space for the brisket and cream cheese mixture. To ensure the bacon crisps up nicely, you can partially cook it before wrapping the stuffed jalapeños. This helps to render some of the fat and gives you a head start on achieving that perfect crispy texture.

• jalapeños - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are milder than jalapeños but still provide a nice heat and flavor.

• jalapeños - Substitute with banana peppers: Banana peppers are less spicy and can offer a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

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

• chopped brisket - Substitute with shredded chicken: Shredded chicken can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of brisket and is a leaner option.

• cream cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture that works well in this recipe.

• cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese is mild and creamy, making it a suitable replacement for cream cheese.

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

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is a thin, cured meat that can add a different but delicious flavor profile.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce offers a sweet and savory flavor that can complement the other ingredients.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with hot sauce: Hot sauce can add a spicy kick and a different flavor dimension to the dish.

• Allow the Texas Twinkies to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.

• Place the cooled Texas Twinkies in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

• To freeze, arrange the Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the Texas Twinkies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and contents for easy identification.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the Texas Twinkies in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, use the defrost setting on your microwave.

• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy. Alternatively, reheat in a smoker at 250°F for a more authentic flavor.

• Brush with additional bbq sauce during reheating if desired, to enhance the flavor and moisture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the leftover Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the bacon from over-crisping. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want the bacon to crisp up again.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the Texas Twinkies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method will keep the bacon crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the Texas Twinkies on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent splattering. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking after the first minute to avoid overheating. Note that the bacon may not stay as crispy with this method.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the Texas Twinkies in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on the grill and heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating. This method can add a nice smoky flavor to the bacon.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the Texas Twinkies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they warm evenly. This method can help maintain the bacon's crispiness.

• Smoker: A device used to cook the jalapeños at a low temperature, infusing them with a smoky flavor.

• Knife: Used to cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

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

• Spoon: Used to stuff each jalapeño half with the brisket and cream cheese mixture.

• Bacon: Wraps around the stuffed jalapeños to add flavor and crispiness.

• Toothpicks: Secures the bacon around the stuffed jalapeños to keep everything in place during cooking.

• Basting brush: Used to brush the jalapeños with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

• Tongs: Helps to place the wrapped jalapeños on the smoker and remove them once cooked.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to cut the jalapeños and prepare other ingredients.

• Measuring cup: Measures out the chopped brisket and cream cheese accurately.

• Cooling rack: Allows the jalapeños to cool slightly before serving, ensuring they are not too hot to handle.

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

Pre-cut jalapeños: Cut and deseed the jalapeños in advance to streamline the assembly process.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to reduce the smoking time and ensure crispy results.

Batch cooking: Smoke a larger batch of Texas Twinkies and freeze extras for quick reheating later.

Efficient brushing: Use a silicone brush for quick and even application of bbq sauce during the last 10 minutes.