Description
These Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Puff Pastry Straws are a deliciously easy appetizer perfect for parties or snacking. Made with a flaky puff pastry base filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and spicy jalapeños, then twisted into crispy golden straws baked to perfection. They are bursting with cheesy, spicy flavors and have a wonderful flaky texture that pairs perfectly with a cool dip.
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
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 sticking and ease cleanup.
- 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. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet gently to flatten it a bit. Spread the prepared cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly across the entire pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges free of filling.
- Form Straws: Carefully fold the puff pastry sheet in half, enclosing the cheese mixture inside. Press down on the edges to seal. Cut the folded pastry into strips roughly 1/2 inch wide each.
- Twist the Strips: Take each strip and twist it several times to form a spiral shape. Arrange the twisted straws spaced out on the lined baking sheet.
- Apply Egg Wash: Using a brush, coat the top of each puff pastry straw with the beaten egg. This will give the straws a shiny, golden-brown finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden, and crispy.
- Serve: After baking, let the pastry straws cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm alongside ranch dip, salsa, or sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference.
- Use fresh jalapeños for a bright, fresh heat or pickled jalapeños for a tangier flavor.
- Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling and folding to help maintain its flakiness.
- Egg wash helps achieve that classic golden appearance but can be omitted for an egg-free option.
- These straws are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently before serving.
- For a milder version, remove all the seeds from the jalapeños or substitute with milder peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American