Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws
If you love the spicy, creamy goodness of jalapeno poppers but want to try something new, these Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws are for you! Picture this: crispy, flaky puff pastry packed with a cheesy, zesty jalapeno filling that makes every bite irresistible. These straws are the perfect appetizer or snack, and trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “delicious!”
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws
Here’s why this recipe will become your new go-to for parties, gatherings, or just whenever you need a savory snack:
- Crispy and Flaky: The puff pastry provides that perfect crunch on the outside, while the cheesy filling is gooey and satisfying on the inside.
- Spicy Kick: Jalapenos bring just the right amount of heat, but don’t worry—they’re balanced by the creamy cheese filling.
- Super Easy: With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have these tasty straws ready in no time.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, these straws are sure to be a hit with everyone, from spice lovers to those who just want a cheesy treat.
Ingredients in Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws
Here’s what you’ll need to create these cheesy, spicy treats:
For the Puff Pastry Straws:
- Puff pastry: The golden, flaky base of these straws.
- Cream cheese: Adds that creamy, smooth texture.
- Cheddar cheese: The star of the filling, giving a bold, cheesy flavor.
- Jalapenos: For that spicy kick that takes these straws to the next level.
- Garlic powder: A little extra flavor to round out the filling.
- Salt and pepper: To season everything just right.
- Egg wash: For that golden finish.
(Note: Full measurements provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s get into the steps to make these cheesy, spicy puff pastry straws:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything until smooth and well incorporated. If you want more heat, feel free to add extra jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s smooth and about 1/8-inch thick.
- Spread the cheese and jalapeno mixture evenly over one half of the puff pastry sheet.
Step 3: Form the Straws
- Fold the puff pastry over the cheese mixture, creating a sealed rectangle.
- Cut the pastry into strips about 1-inch wide.
- Twist each strip a few times to form a spiral shape.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Place the twisted pastry strips on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a splash of water) to help them achieve that golden, glossy finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the straws are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the puff pastry straws cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them warm with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~250
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws
These straws are a perfect snack on their own, but they pair wonderfully with:
- Dipping sauces: Try ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa to complement the heat from the jalapenos.
- A cold drink: Serve with a chilled beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or even a cold beer to balance the spice.
- Fresh veggies: A side of cucumber or carrot sticks helps cool down the heat from the jalapenos.
Additional Tips
- If you want extra heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- For a savory twist, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top of the puff pastry before baking.
- These straws can be frozen before baking—just freeze the twisted straws on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag or container. Bake straight from the freezer for a quick snack later.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the puff pastry straws and refrigerate them before baking. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve!
2. What other cheese can I use?
You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make them spicier?
Absolutely! Add more jalapenos, or toss in a bit of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
4. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes! Store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this recipe and saves you a lot of time.
5. Can I freeze the puff pastry straws?
Yes, freeze the straws before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
7. Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, they’re already vegetarian! If you want a more intense flavor, add some extra spices to the cheese mixture.
8. Can I use a different filling?
Of course! Try spinach, artichoke, or even a sausage and cheese combo for a fun twist.
9. Can I make these without jalapenos?
Yes, you can omit the jalapenos for a milder version, or substitute them with bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
10. How long do these take to cook?
They bake in just 12-15 minutes, so they’re quick and easy to make!
Conclusion
Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws are the perfect snack for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in something crispy and cheesy. These little bites are packed with flavor, and I guarantee you’ll be coming back for more. So grab your puff pastry and get ready to enjoy the ultimate cheesy, spicy treat!
PrintCheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws
These Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws are a delightful fusion of spicy jalapenos, crispy bacon, and three types of cheese, all encased in flaky puff pastry. They’re perfect as an appetizer or snack for any gathering.
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min
- Yield: 12 straws
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
– 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup pickled jalapenos, finely chopped
– 4 slices bacon, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
– 1 egg, whisked
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Pastry:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
– Roll out the puff pastry sheet on the parchment paper. Optionally, use a rolling pin to slightly extend the pastry by about an inch.
2. **Assemble the Straws:**
– Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the entire surface of the pastry.
– Evenly scatter the chopped pickled jalapenos, chopped bacon, and half of each grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan) over one half of the pastry.
3. **Form the Straws:**
– Fold the unfilled half of the pastry over the topped half to cover the fillings.
– Gently press down to seal the edges.
– Using a knife or pizza cutter, mark indents across the pastry at approximately ¾-inch (2 cm) intervals to guide your cuts.
– Slice the pastry into strips along these indents.
4. **Twist and Bake:**
– Carefully twist each pastry strip a couple of times to form a spiral shape and place them on the prepared baking tray.
– Brush each twist with the whisked egg.
– Sprinkle the remaining grated cheeses over the twists.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the twists are golden and crispy. Rotate the tray halfway through baking for even cooking.
5. **Serve:**
– Allow the twists to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
– **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of pickled jalapenos to suit your heat preference. For a milder version, reduce the quantity.
– **Cheese Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for extra stretchiness, or crumbled feta or blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
– **Bacon:** Adding raw bacon to the pastry helps it stay in place better during twisting. However, you can pre-cook the bacon if you prefer.
– **Storage:** These pastry straws are best consumed the day they’re made but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 straw
- Calories: 353kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 61mg
