Texas Twinkies are a hearty, mouthwatering snack that’s a real crowd-pleaser. Imagine crisp, golden jalapeño peppers stuffed with creamy cheese and wrapped securely in smoky bacon. When baked to perfection, the bacon crisps up, and the cheese melts into a smooth, flavorful filling that balances spicy and savory just right.
I love making Texas Twinkies whenever friends come over because they always bring people together with their bold flavor and satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re pretty simple to whip up, which is a huge bonus when you’re short on time but still want something special. I like to line them up on a baking sheet and watch that bacon sizzle while the house fills with the irresistible smell.
These snacks are perfect served straight out of the oven while still warm and gooey inside. I often pair them with a cool ranch dip or a bit of smoky barbecue sauce for a little extra kick. To me, Texas Twinkies are the ultimate appetizer for game days, parties, or any gathering where good food and good company come first.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: These give a nice spicy kick. If you want less heat, try using mini sweet peppers or Anaheim peppers. Removing seeds and membranes helps control the spiciness.
Cream Cheese: This adds creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the spice. You can swap it for goat cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
Twinkies: The soft golden sponge cake adds a sweet contrast. If you can’t find Twinkies, any light, sweet sponge cake will work. Pound cake might be too dense.
Bacon: Bacon wraps hold everything together and add smoky, salty flavor. Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon are good options for lighter or vegetarian versions.
How Do You Keep Bacon Crispy While Baking Without Burning?
Bacon can burn or get unevenly cooked if not watched. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with room temperature bacon to ensure even cooking.
- Wrap the bacon snugly but not too tight around the Twinkie, allowing some fat to render.
- Place the wrapped Twinkies on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This lets the heat circulate and the bacon crisps evenly.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, checking around 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Rotate the pan halfway if your oven heats unevenly.
- Let them cool a few minutes before serving so the bacon stays crispy.
Patience pays off! This way, the bacon stays crunchy without burning the soft cake inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding your Texas Twinkies while they cook evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Sharp knife – to slice jalapeños and Twinkies cleanly and safely.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep area neat and protects surfaces.
- Toothpicks – great for securing the bacon wrap around each Twinkie so nothing unravels while baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cream cheese for pimento cheese for a tangy, southern twist that adds depth.
- Add cooked sausage or pepperoni inside the jalapeño for extra meaty flavor and protein.
- Try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese inside for a richer, gooey melt.
- Mix in a little smoked paprika or chili powder with the cream cheese for a smoky, spicy boost.
Texas Twinkies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 8 jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
For The Outer Layers:
- 8 Hostess or Little Debbie Twinkies (individually wrapped golden sponge cakes)
- 8 slices of bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Plan for a little extra time to cool before serving so the filling can set nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Jalapeños:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, carefully cut each jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise and take out all the seeds and membranes to keep the heat balanced.
2. Stuff The Jalapeños:
Spread softened cream cheese evenly inside each jalapeño half. This creamy filling will balance the spiciness perfectly.
3. Assemble The Twinkies:
Slice each Twinkie lengthwise and gently wrap one cream cheese-stuffed jalapeño half inside like a little pocket.
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Carefully wrap a slice of bacon around each Twinkie and jalapeño combo. Use a toothpick if needed to hold it all together during baking.
5. Bake To Perfection:
Place the bacon-wrapped Twinkies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a wire rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the Twinkies turn a lovely golden brown.
6. Cool And Serve:
Take them out of the oven and let them cool a bit before serving. This helps the cream cheese filling set so it doesn’t spill out when you bite in.
Enjoy your delicious Texas Twinkies warm – a sweet, spicy, and savory treat that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Jalapeños for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh jalapeños for the best texture and flavor. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before stuffing.
How Do I Store Leftover Texas Twinkies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the bacon crispy and the filling warm.
Can I Make Texas Twinkies Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble them up to the baking step, then refrigerate covered for a few hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture and crispy bacon.
What Can I Substitute for Twinkies?
If you can’t find Twinkies, try using a light, sweet sponge cake or even pound cake. Avoid dense cakes as they won’t wrap around the jalapeño as well.
