If you’re a fan of spicy food and BBQ, you’re in for a treat with the Texas Twinkies recipe. This dish combines the heat of jalapeños with the smoky flavor of brisket for a mouthwatering appetizer or main course. The recipe is simple, but the result is a flavor explosion that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
When it comes to making Texas Twinkies, the right ingredients are essential to ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some tips on selecting the right jalapeños, choosing quality smoked brisket, and cheese varieties and preferences:
- 12-16 extra-large jalapenos
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 1 lb smoked brisket
- 1 lb chorizo (optional)
- 2 cups smoked gouda, shredded
- ½ cup Jeff’s original rub
- 12-14 slices thick-cut bacon
- Jeff’s original sauce
Directions:
- Cut a “T” into each jalapeno pepper by cutting halfway through the pepper just below the stem, then cutting a slit from the top of the “T” to the tip of the pepper.
- Carefully pry open the pepper and deseed and devein the peppers with a thin, sharp knife, then rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining seeds.
- Make the stuffing mixture using 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. Mix well.
- Stuff the peppers with the stuffing mixture.
- Stretch thick slices of bacon then wrap a single piece around each pepper. Secure with a toothpick.
- Set up the smoker for cooking at 225°F with indirect heat. Use pecan wood for smoke, and if your smoker uses a water pan, fill it up.
- Cook peppers directly on the grate for about 3 hours or until the bacon has a good bite-through and the peppers are soft to your liking.
- When the peppers are ready to eat, glaze them with thinned barbecue sauce and crank up the heat to 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 45 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Selecting the Right Jalapeños
The first step in making Texas Twinkies is to select the right jalapeños. You want to choose jalapeños that are fresh and firm, with a deep green color. Avoid jalapeños that are wrinkled, soft, or have brown spots. The size of the jalapeños is also important. You want to choose jalapeños that are large enough to stuff with the brisket filling, but not so large that they become difficult to handle.
Choosing Quality Smoked Brisket
The quality of the smoked brisket is also important. You want to choose brisket that is well-smoked and has a rich, smoky flavor. Look for brisket that is tender and juicy, with a good balance of fat and meat. You can use leftover brisket or smoke a fresh brisket specifically for this recipe.
Cheese Varieties and Preferences
When it comes to cheese, there are many varieties and preferences to choose from. Cream cheese is a common ingredient in Texas Twinkies, but you can also use other soft cheeses such as goat cheese or brie. Colby jack cheese is another popular choice, but you can experiment with other cheese varieties such as cheddar or pepper jack. You can also adjust the amount of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Overall, the key to making delicious Texas Twinkies is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to experiment with different flavor combinations until you find the perfect recipe for your taste buds.
Preparation Basics
Preparing Texas Twinkies is a fun and easy way to spice up your next barbecue. Here are the basic steps to get you started:
Cleaning and Prepping Jalapeños
First, you’ll need to clean and prep your jalapeños. Wash them thoroughly and then cut off the tops. Use a spoon handle to remove the seeds and membrane. Be sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapeños to avoid getting the spicy oils on your skin.
Preparing the Brisket Filling
Next, you’ll need to prepare the brisket filling. Dice up the brisket into small chunks that will fit into your jalapeños. Mix softened cream cheese, colby jack cheese, BBQ rub, and brisket in a bowl together. You can also add other seasonings or ingredients to customize the filling to your liking.
Stuffing Techniques
Now it’s time to stuff your jalapeños with the brisket filling. There are several techniques you can use to do this. One option is to use a spoon or knife to carefully stuff the jalapeño with the brisket filling. Another option is to use a plastic bag to pipe the filling into the jalapeños. Once filled, replace the cut-out wedge to seal the opening.
Finally, wrap each jalapeño with a strip of bacon to hold everything together. Use toothpicks to secure the bacon and keep it from unraveling during cooking. Now you’re ready to smoke your Texas Twinkies and enjoy the delicious combination of spicy jalapeños and smoky brisket.
Smoking Process
When smoking Texas Twinkies, the smoking process is a crucial step that can make or break the dish. Here are some key factors to consider for a successful smoking process.
Wood Selection for Smoking
Choosing the right wood for smoking is important to achieve the desired flavor. For Texas Twinkies, hickory or mesquite wood is ideal. Hickory wood has a strong, smoky flavor that pairs well with the brisket, while mesquite wood has a more intense flavor that complements the jalapenos. Other types of wood such as oak, apple, and cherry can also be used, but they may not produce the same flavor profile as hickory or mesquite.
Temperature and Timing
Maintaining a consistent temperature and timing is crucial to ensure that the Texas Twinkies are cooked evenly and thoroughly. The recommended smoking temperature for Texas Twinkies is 225°F. At this temperature, the jalapenos will become tender and the bacon will become crispy. The smoking time for Texas Twinkies is approximately 90 minutes, but it may vary depending on the size of the jalapenos and the thickness of the bacon. It is important to monitor the temperature and timing closely to avoid overcooking or undercooking the Texas Twinkies.
Maintaining Moisture
Maintaining moisture is important to prevent the Texas Twinkies from becoming dry and tough. To maintain moisture, you can wrap the Texas Twinkies in aluminum foil halfway through the smoking process. This will help to trap the moisture and prevent it from evaporating. Another option is to spray the Texas Twinkies with apple juice or water every 30 minutes during the smoking process. This will help to keep the Texas Twinkies moist and tender.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfectly smoked Texas Twinkies that are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments and Sides
Texas Twinkies are a delicious appetizer that can be served on their own or with a variety of accompaniments and sides. Here are a few suggestions to help enhance your dining experience:
- BBQ Sauce: A classic accompaniment to any smoked meat, BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with Texas Twinkies. Choose your favorite brand or try making your own for a personalized touch.
- Sour Cream: The creamy and tangy flavor of sour cream can help balance out the heat from the jalapeño peppers.
- Guacamole: The rich and creamy texture of guacamole is a perfect complement to the smoky and spicy flavors of Texas Twinkies.
- Cornbread: The sweet and savory flavors of cornbread can help balance out the heat from the jalapeño peppers and add a nice crunch to your meal.
Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when it comes to serving Texas Twinkies. Here are a few tips to help elevate your presentation and impress your guests:
- Arrange on a Platter: Arrange your Texas Twinkies on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or sliced jalapeños for a colorful and eye-catching display.
- Serve with Toothpicks: Serve your Texas Twinkies with toothpicks to make them easy to pick up and eat without getting your hands messy.
- Use a Smoker Box: If you don’t have a smoker, you can still achieve that smoky flavor by using a smoker box on your grill. Simply place the smoker box on the grill and follow the instructions for smoking your Texas Twinkies.
With these serving suggestions and presentation tips, you can take your Texas Twinkies to the next level and impress your guests with a delicious and visually appealing appetizer.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration Guidelines
After making a batch of Texas Twinkies, you may have some leftovers that you want to store for later. To ensure the safety and quality of your food, it is important to follow proper refrigeration guidelines.
First, let the Texas Twinkies cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a ziplock bag. Label the container with the date of storage and place it in the refrigerator. Texas Twinkies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Best Practices for Reheating
When reheating Texas Twinkies, it is important to do so properly to ensure that they are safe to eat and maintain their delicious flavor. Here are some best practices for reheating:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the Texas Twinkies on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place the Texas Twinkies on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until heated through.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the Texas Twinkies on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
No matter which method you choose, make sure the internal temperature of the Texas Twinkies reaches 165°F before consuming. This will ensure that any bacteria that may have grown during storage is killed off.
In conclusion, following proper refrigeration guidelines and reheating practices will help you enjoy your Texas Twinkies safely and deliciously.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Texas Twinkies?
To make Texas Twinkies, you will need jalapeños, leftover brisket, cream cheese, colby jack cheese, BBQ rub, and bacon. The exact amounts will depend on how many Texas Twinkies you plan to make.
How do you prepare the jalapeños for stuffing?
Cut off the tops of each jalapeño and use a spoon handle to remove the seeds and membrane. Be sure to wear gloves when handling the jalapeños to avoid getting the spicy oils on your skin.
What is the recommended smoking time and temperature for brisket in Texas Twinkies?
The recommended smoking time for Texas Twinkies is 45 minutes to 1 hour at 350°F. The internal temperature of the brisket should reach 165°F.
Can Texas Twinkies be made in advance and if so, how should they be stored?
Yes, Texas Twinkies can be made in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
What are some common dipping sauces or toppings to serve with Texas Twinkies?
Some popular dipping sauces for Texas Twinkies include ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and honey mustard. You can also sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top for added flavor.
Are there any variations to the traditional Texas Twinkies recipe for dietary restrictions?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon or omit it altogether for a healthier option.
