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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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