Irresistible Texas Twinkies – Jalapeños Stuffed with Smoked Brisket 
Ingredients:
8 large jalapeño peppers
1 cup smoked brisket, shredded
8 slices bacon
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Toothpicks, for securing
Directions:
Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
Cut the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded brisket, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff each jalapeño half with the brisket and cheese mixture.
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with toothpicks.
Place the stuffed jalapeños on the smoker rack and smoke for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.
Remove from the smoker and let cool slightly before serving.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1-1.5 hours | Total Time: 1.5-2 hours | Servings: 8
Here are some popular questions and their answers related to Irresistible Texas Twinkies – Jalapeños Stuffed with Smoked Brisket:
- Q: Can I make Texas Twinkies in the oven instead of a smoker?
- A: Yes, you can bake Texas Twinkies in the oven instead of using a smoker. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.
- Q: Can I use pre-cooked brisket for this recipe?
- A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked brisket for this recipe. Simply shred the pre-cooked brisket and mix it with the other ingredients before stuffing the jalapeños.
- Q: How spicy are Texas Twinkies?
- A: The level of spiciness of Texas Twinkies depends on the jalapeños used and whether the seeds and membranes are removed. Typically, jalapeños have a moderate level of heat, but removing the seeds and membranes can reduce the spiciness.
- Q: Can I substitute the brisket with another type of meat?
- A: Yes, you can substitute the brisket with other types of meat, such as pulled pork, shredded chicken, or even ground beef. Choose a meat that complements the flavors of the jalapeños and cheese.
- Q: Can I prepare Texas Twinkies ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can prepare Texas Twinkies ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Q: How do I know when Texas Twinkies are done cooking?
- A: Texas Twinkies are done cooking when the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender. You can also check the internal temperature of the stuffed jalapeños with a meat thermometer – it should register 165°F (74°C).
- Q: Can I freeze Texas Twinkies for later?
- A: Yes, you can freeze Texas Twinkies for later. After smoking or baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake or reheat in the oven until heated through.
- Q: What are some serving suggestions for Texas Twinkies?
- A: Texas Twinkies are delicious on their own as a savory appetizer or snack. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for extra flavor. Enjoy them alongside other smoked meats and sides for a barbecue feast!
here are some tips and secrets to achieve the perfect Irresistible Texas Twinkies:
- Choose the Right Jalapeños: Select large jalapeños that are firm and free from blemishes. Look for peppers that are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before stuffing them. For a spicier kick, leave some or all of the seeds and membranes intact.
- Precook the Bacon Slightly: To ensure that the bacon cooks evenly and becomes crispy, consider precooking it slightly before wrapping it around the stuffed jalapeños. This will help prevent undercooked bacon and ensure a deliciously crispy texture.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ingredients, especially the smoked brisket and cheeses. The flavor of the Texas Twinkies will greatly benefit from using premium ingredients.
- Enhance the Cheese Filling: Add extra flavor to the cream cheese and cheddar cheese mixture by incorporating additional seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and your favorite herbs or spices.
- Secure the Bacon Well: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the stuffed jalapeños firmly. This will prevent the bacon from unraveling during smoking and ensure that each Texas Twinkie retains its shape.
- Monitor Smoking Temperature: Maintain a consistent smoking temperature of around 275°F (135°C) throughout the cooking process. This will help ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
- Indirect Heat for Smoking: When smoking Texas Twinkies, use indirect heat by placing them away from the direct flame or heat source. This will prevent the bacon from burning and allow the flavors to develop slowly and evenly.
- Baste with Sauce (Optional): For added flavor and moisture, consider basting the Texas Twinkies with your favorite barbecue sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of smoking. This will create a delicious caramelized finish and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the smoked Texas Twinkies to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and ensure that the filling sets properly for easier slicing and serving.
By following these tips and secrets, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Irresistible Texas Twinkies that are sure to impress your family and friends!