Description
These Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws are a delightful and easy appetizer featuring a crispy puff pastry exterior filled with a creamy, spicy mixture of cheeses and jalapeños. Perfect for parties or snack time, they are baked to golden perfection and offer a flavorful kick with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
Filling
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and finely chopped (or 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the straws from sticking during baking.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cheese and jalapeño filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the pastry later.
- Form the Straws: Carefully fold the puff pastry in half to enclose the cheese mixture. Press down gently along the edges to seal the pastry sheet. Then, cut the folded pastry into strips approximately 1/2 inch wide.
- Twist the Strips: Take each strip and twist it a few times to create a spiral shape, which will become your straws. Place the twisted straws evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush each pastry straw lightly with the beaten egg. This step ensures a beautiful golden and shiny finish after baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the straws for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and crispy.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the straws from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve warm alongside ranch dip, salsa, or sour cream for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to blend easily with the other ingredients.
- You can adjust the number of jalapeños to control the spiciness of the filling.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, even strips.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the filling.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore crispness.
