Air Fryer Texas Twinkies — Texans are always looking for a bit of flavor and spice. But what about when you get too much of both? That’s where the twinkie comes in! It is essentially-a whole jalapeno pepper stuffed with cream cheese and chopped leftover brisket that we call “The Texas Tweak.”
Everyone has made Air Fryer Jalapeno Peppers, and they are so good!
But what if you want even more flavor? Air Fryer Texas Twinkies takes things up a notch; meaty yet creamy smoky flavors meet sweet, melty textures like never before (in more ways than just taste). Of course, these appetizers are wrapped in bacon! Which makes them even more amazing!
Are you looking for some great and easy Air Fryer Appetizer Recipes? Some of my favorites are AIR FRYER KIWI CHIPS, AIR FRYER JERK CHICKEN WINGS, AIR FRYER LASAGNA ROLLS, and AIR FRYER EVERYTHING PIGS IN A BLANKET.
What Are Texas Twinkies?
Texas Twinkies are a spicy treat that started in Texas. It’s the perfect snack to enjoy while watching your favorite game or kicking back with friends on Sunday afternoon!
The ingredients for these tasty treats start as some jumbo-sized jalapeno peppers, which we hollow out of their insides before stuffing them full of chopped brisket and cream cheese, then wrap it all up using bacon – they’re so good you won’t be able to stop at one bite!
They are delicious, And they will soon become a family favorite! And you can thank you, trusty Air Fryer!
Why Cook Texas Twinkies In Air Fryer
Texas Twinkies are a popular Southern and barbecue-inspired appetizer or snack. They are not the typical cream-filled sponge cakes that most people associate with “Twinkie.” Instead, Texas Twinkies are jalapeño peppers hollowed out and stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese and brisket or other barbecued meats.
Once stuffed, they are wrapped in bacon and then smoked or grilled until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender. The combination of spicy jalapeño, creamy cheese, savory meat, and smoky bacon makes them a favorite at many barbecue joints and gatherings. They are sometimes served with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping.
Watch How To Cook Texas Twinkies In Air Fryer
Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Texas Twinkies
With a few simple ingredients, you can have this delicious appetizer in minutes!
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printbel recipe card, at the bottom of the post, and the nutritional information.
- Jalapeño Peppers: The spicy foundation of the Texas Twinkie, jalapeños provide the perfect pocket for delicious fillings.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the jalapeño spice.
- Brisket (or barbecued meat): Shredded and smoky, this gives the Texas Twinkie its meaty heart and traditional flavor.
- Bacon Strips: Wrapped around the stuffed jalapeño, the bacon crisps up in the air fryer, offering a savory, smoky shell.
- Seasoning (like BBQ spice or rub): Enhances the flavors, tying together the meaty, spicy, and creamy components.
- Barbecue Sauce (optional for dipping): A tangy complement to dip your Texas Twinkie in, elevating every bite.
How To Make Air Fryer Texas Twinkies
Below is an outline of how to make Texas Twinkies in your air fryer; the full recipe is at the bottom of the post.
Step One: Prepare The Jalapenos
Start by cutting the top of your jalapenos off, remove the seeds and membranes (if you do not want them too hot)
Step Two: Stuff the Bacon Wrapped Jalapnos Air Fryer
Add the cream cheese into the center of the jalapeno, and then fill the hole with the brisket.
Step Three: Air Fry Texas Twinkies
Wrap the jalapeno pepper in bacon, and use some toothpicks (soaked in water for about 10 minutes) to hold the bacon around the jalapeno. Set them into the air fryer basket and set cook time for 8 to 10 minutes at 390 degrees F air fryer setting.
Pro Tips For Cooking Texas Twinkies
- Choose Fresh, Plump Jalapeños: Opt for larger jalapeños as they’re easier to stuff and offer a good filling-to-pepper ratio.
- Wear Gloves: Jalapeños can be spicy! To prevent “jalapeño hands”, it’s wise to wear gloves when handling and deseeding the peppers.
- Pre-Cook Brisket: If you’re using freshly cooked brisket, ensure it’s tender before adding to the Twinkies. This ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Secure with Toothpicks: If you’re having trouble keeping the bacon wrapped around the jalapeño, secure it with a toothpick. Just remember to remove it before eating!
- Monitor Closely: Given the different sizes of jalapeños and variations in air fryers, keep an eye on your Texas Twinkies during the final minutes to avoid over-crisping.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting them sit for a couple of minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld and also makes them easier to handle and eat.
- Customize Filling: Feel free to add ingredients like shredded cheddar or spices to the cream cheese for added flavor.
- Serve Warm: Texas Twinkies taste best when served warm, paired with a side of barbecue sauce or ranch for dipping.
What are Texas Twinkies?
Texas Twinkies are jalapeños stuffed with a mixture of brisket and cream cheese, wrapped in bacon, and smoked or cooked until crispy.
How spicy are these?
The spice level mainly depends on the jalapeños. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat, but if you prefer them spicier, you can leave some seeds in.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Texas Twinkies ahead and refrigerate them. Just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to cook.
How long do they last in the refrigerator?
Once cooked, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Can I use a different meat than brisket?
Absolutely! While brisket is traditional, you can experiment with pulled pork, chicken, or even ground meat.
Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?
No, the bacon will cook wrapped around the jalapeño in the air fryer. However, if you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can partially pre-cook it.
Why are they called Texas Twinkies?
The name likely comes from the resemblance to a Twinkie snack in shape and size and their Texan roots with the incorporation of smoked brisket.
Can I cook these in an oven or grill if I don’t have an air fryer?
Definitely! While the air fryer provides a unique crispy finish, these can be baked in an oven or grilled for a smokier flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What dipping sauces go well with Texas Twinkies?
Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli can complement the flavors well.
Are these keto-friendly?
Given the primary ingredients of jalapeños, meat, cream cheese, and bacon, Texas Twinkies are indeed keto-friendly. Just ensure any added sauces or seasonings align with your dietary needs.
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Air Fryer Texas Twinkie
Description
Ingredients
- 8 Jalapeno Peppers
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup brisket, cooked
- 8 slices bacon
Instructions
- Start by cutting the top of your jalapenos off, remove the seeds and membranes (if you do not want them too hot)
- Add the cream cheese into the center of the jalapeno and then fill the hole with brisket.
- Wrap the jalapeno pepper in bacon, use some toothpicks (soaked in water for about 10 minutes) to hold the bacon around the jalapeno. Set them into the air fryer basket for 8 to 10 minutes at 390 degrees F, air fryer setting.
- Plate, serve, and enjoy!
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Notes
- Refrigeration: After cooking, allow the Texas Twinkies to cool to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container, placing parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Room Temperature: It’s not recommended to leave Texas Twinkies out for more than two hours, especially because they contain cream cheese.
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to its original cooking temperature. Place the Texas Twinkies inside and heat for 2-3 minutes or until they are warmed throughout. This method will also help retain the crispiness of the bacon.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes or until hot and crispy.
- Microwave: While this method is faster, it might not keep the bacon as crispy. Place the Texas Twinkies on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Before Cooking: Assemble the Texas Twinkies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen Twinkies to a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, you can air fry them directly from the freezer, adding a few additional minutes to the cooking time.
- After Cooking: Allow the cooked Texas Twinkies to cool completely. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to a month. To reheat, follow the oven or air fryer method mentioned above, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re heated throughout.
Nutrition
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