Spicy Spiral Delight: A Zesty Jalapeño Twists Recipe

Crispy, golden pastry meets spicy excitement in these irresistible jalapeño twists that dance with zesty flavor.

Cheese-loaded jalapeño twists spark unexpected culinary magic in every delightful bite.

Spiraling with sharp cheddar and bold green chili heat, these savory treats promise a mouthwatering experience.

They blend buttery, flaky layers with a kick that awakens taste buds.

Each twist promises a perfect balance of crunch and spice that makes snacking an adventure.

The recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing appetizer that vanishes faster than you can plate them.

Guests will beg for seconds of these addictive, fire-breathing pastry delights.

Tools for Baking Spicy Jalapeño Twists Right

• Stand Mixer: Essential for effortlessly mixing dough and ensuring smooth consistency.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Baking Sheet: Provides perfect surface for twisting and baking jalapeño treats.
• Sharp Knife: Helps cut dough into precise pieces for uniform twists.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient proportions.
• Brush: Used for applying melted butter after baking for extra flavor.
• Bowl: Useful for dissolving baking soda and holding prepared ingredients.

Steps to Roll and Bake Jalapeño Twists Easily

• Dough Preparation

Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a mixer. Allow mixture to activate and become bubbly. Add salt and flour, blending until smooth. Fold in chopped jalapeños and cheese for vibrant flavor.

• Shaping and Forming

Stretch dough into long slender logs. Slice into bite-sized segments. Gently twist each piece, creating playful curvy shapes that will catch everyone’s attention.

• Baking Magic

Warm oven to sizzling hot temperature. Quickly dunk twisted dough into hot water bath for quick surface transformation. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake until edges turn golden and crispy. Finish with a generous brush of melted butter for extra deliciousness.

• Serving Suggestion

Allow twists to cool slightly. Serve warm as irresistible snacks that pack a spicy punch. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or spontaneous flavor adventures.

Variations That Add New Layers to Jalapeño Twists

• Jalapeño Twists Edition
• Choose fresh jalapeños for maximum flavor punch. Remove seeds for milder heat or keep them for extra spiciness.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda to create unique flavor profiles.
• Let dough rest longer for softer pretzels or knead briefly for a chewier texture. Room temperature ingredients help develop better consistency.
• Sprinkle coarse sea salt, everything bagel seasoning, or grated parmesan before baking for added crunch and depth of flavor.
• Prepare dough ahead and refrigerate overnight. Cold fermentation enhances pretzel taste and allows flavors to develop more intensely.

Serving Jalapeño Twists with Sauces or Sides

• Spicy Party Starter
• Soup's Perfect Companion: Pair these twisty breadsticks with creamy tomato soup or chili for a comforting meal that brings extra warmth and kick to your dinner table.
• Cheese Board Champion: Arrange these jalapeño twists alongside a selection of cheeses, cured meats, and olives for a stunning charcuterie board that'll impress your guests with minimal effort.
• Dipping Delight: Create quick dipping sauces like ranch, spicy aioli, or cheese sauce to complement the bread's natural heat and enhance the overall flavor experience.

Tips for Storing Jalapeño Twists Without Losing Crunch

• Quick Batch Preparation: Make double the recipe and freeze uncooked twists for future meals. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, store in freezer bags, and enjoy fresh-baked snacks within 3 months.
• Fridge Fresh Strategy: Store cooled jalapeño twists in airtight containers for 3-4 days. Stack with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain crispy texture.
• Party Prep Hack: Prepare dough and twist shapes one day ahead. Refrigerate overnight, then bake right before serving for maximum flavor and minimal morning stress.
• Smart Reheating Technique: Warm leftover twists in toaster oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle extra cheese on top to revive crispiness and enhance taste. Avoid microwave to keep original texture.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 210 kcal

Servings: 13

Ingredients That Pack Heat in Jalapeño Twists

• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps create a soft, elastic texture.
• Active Dry Yeast: Provides essential rising power and develops bread's airy structure.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to balance spicy jalapeños.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast fermentation.
• Flour: Builds the bread's structure and creates a tender, chewy base.

• Jalapeños: Adds zesty, spicy kick with fresh heat and vibrant green color.
• Cheddar Cheese: Delivers rich, tangy flavor and melty goodness throughout the twists.

• Baking Soda: Creates signature pretzel-like golden brown crust and distinctive shine.
• Egg Wash: Provides beautiful golden color and glossy surface.
• Coarse Salt: Adds crunchy texture and enhances overall seasoning.
• Melted Butter: Brushed on top for extra richness and irresistible sheen.

Spicy Jalapeño Twists Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Baked jalapeño twists deliver a spicy, cheesy adventure from Mexico’s culinary landscape. Crisp pastry and zesty peppers combine for an irresistible snack that will satisfy bold flavor seekers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 cups flour
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 medium jalapeños (seeded and finely minced)
• 1 ¼ cups (296 ml) warm water
• 2 ½ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 cups (946 ml) very hot water
• ¼ cup (59 ml) baking soda
• 1 egg + 2 tbsps water (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsps melted butter
• Coarse salt (for sprinkling)

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Instructions

1. Yeast Activation: Combine lukewarm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a stand mixer bowl. Allow the mixture to bloom and become frothy for 7-8 minutes, creating a robust fermentation base.
2. Dough Formation: Incorporate kosher salt and gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing on medium speed until the dough transforms into a smooth, elastic consistency. Finely dice fresh jalapeño peppers, removing seeds to control heat intensity.
3. Flavor Infusion: Grate sharp cheddar cheese and fold into the dough, adding additional flour to achieve an optimal tacky texture. Knead thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly and develop complex flavor profiles.
4. Shaping Technique: Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and divide into uniform portions. Roll each segment into slender logs, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Gently twist each piece to create an elegant spiral shape.
5. Baking Soda Bath: Prepare a solution by dissolving baking soda in hot water. Briefly submerge twisted dough pieces for 20-30 seconds to enhance browning and develop a distinctive pretzel-like exterior.
6. Baking Process: Arrange twisted dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring spacing between pieces. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake for 9-11 minutes until achieving a deep golden-brown color with crisp, enticing edges.
7. Final Touch: Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted unsalted butter to impart richness and a glossy finish. Serve warm to maximize flavor complexity and textural experience.

Notes

• Yeast Activation Tip: Ensure water temperature is precisely 110°F/43°C to activate yeast without killing it, creating a perfect foamy base for soft, airy twists.
• Pepper Heat Control: Remove jalapeño seeds for a milder flavor or keep them for extra spiciness, allowing personalized heat levels in your recipe.
• Baking Soda Bath Secret: The quick 20-30 second dip creates a signature pretzel-like crust, delivering a golden-brown exterior with professional bakery-quality finish.
• Butter Brushing Hack: Immediately brush with melted butter after baking to enhance flavor, add shine, and create a luxurious, glossy appearance that elevates the overall taste and presentation.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg