Texas Twinkies are a flavor-packed, crispy hand-held delight that marries tender chicken breast strips with melted pepper jack and creamy cheddar, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and kissed by a golden, herb-infused breadcrumb crust. Each bite unleashes a playful crunch followed by gooey goodness, brightened with a hint of smoked turkey bacon and zesty jalapeño for a sneak of Texas heat. Perfect for busy weeknights or cheering on your favorite team, these miniature marvels come together in under 30 minutes—no fancy gear or secret sauce required. Prepare to wow your family and friends with these irresistible, fun-filled morsels.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Texas Twinkies
- Irresistibly smoky flavor that brings the BBQ experience home.
- Easy to customize with your favorite fillings and spices.
- Perfect for gatherings, impressing friends and family alike.
- Great for meal prep, making delicious snacks for the week.
Texas Twinkies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw corn dogs slightly and slice each in half lengthwise.
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
- Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture inside each corn dog half.
- Press the filled sides together to enclose the filling.
- Dip each filled corn dog in beaten egg, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the coated corn dogs in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbs | 20g |
Ingredients
Get ready to whip up some delicious Texas Twinkies with these easy-to-follow ingredients!
- 12 frozen corn dogs – your favorite brand
- 8 oz cream cheese – softened for easy mixing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – adds a cheesy flavor
- 4 strips bacon – cooked and crumbled (use turkey bacon for a lighter option)
- 2 green onions – sliced for a fresh touch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – for that crunchy coating
- 2 eggs – beaten to help bind the mixture
- oil – for frying, use vegetable oil for best results
How to Make Texas Twinkies
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat! Texas Twinkies are a fun twist on traditional corn dogs, filled with a creamy, cheesy goodness. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 3–4 minutes, you’ll have these crispy bites ready to enjoy in no time!
Step 1: Thaw and Slice
Thaw corn dogs slightly and slice each in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
Step 3: Fill the Corn Dogs
Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture inside each corn dog half.
Step 4: Enclose the Filling
Press the filled sides together to enclose the filling.
Step 5: Coat the Corn Dogs
Dip each filled corn dog in beaten egg, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Fry the Corn Dogs
Fry the coated corn dogs in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 8: Drain the Corn Dogs
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Appetizer |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 19 minutes |
| Dietary | Contains dairy |
| Serves | 12 servings |
| Best Served | Hot with dipping sauce |
Pro Tips for Making Texas Twinkies
- Opt for smoked chicken or turkey for a flavorful filling.
- Use cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture.
- Wrap tightly in bacon for a crispy finish.
- Experiment with different spices for a unique kick.
- Let them rest after cooking for better flavor melding.
How to Serve this Texas Twinkies
- Serve with a side of creamy ranch dressing for dipping.
- Pair with fresh guacamole for a zesty kick.
- Top with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added flavor.
- Enjoy alongside a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a fun twist.
- Complement with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep your Texas Twinkies fresh and tasty:
Storing Texas Twinkies Leftovers
- Allow leftovers to cool completely.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Texas Twinkies
- Wrap each Twinkie individually in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped Twinkies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Texas Twinkies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place Twinkies on a baking sheet.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- For microwave, heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What are Texas Twinkies?
Texas Twinkies are a delicious twist on traditional stuffed jalapeños. They are typically made by wrapping jalapeño peppers in a savory filling, often featuring cream cheese and spices, and then wrapped in bacon before being smoked or baked. This dish is a popular appetizer at barbecues and gatherings, offering a perfect blend of heat and flavor that is sure to please any crowd.
2. Where can I buy Texas Twinkies?
While you can find Texas Twinkies at many barbecue restaurants and food trucks, they are also easy to make at home! If you’re looking to purchase them, check local eateries that specialize in Tex-Mex or barbecue cuisine. Alternatively, you can find pre-made versions at some grocery stores, especially in regions where this dish is popular.
3. What ingredients are used in Texas Twinkies?
Texas Twinkies typically include jalapeño peppers, cream cheese, shredded cheese, spices, and bacon. For a twist, you can use turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative to keep it lighter or cater to dietary preferences. The filling can also be customized with various ingredients like shredded chicken or beef, depending on your taste.
4. How do Texas Twinkies differ from traditional Twinkies?
Texas Twinkies are savory and spicy, while traditional Twinkies are sweet and creamy. The former is a stuffed jalapeño dish that combines heat with rich flavors, whereas the latter is a dessert cake filled with a sweet cream filling. They are entirely different in terms of flavor profile and culinary experience, appealing to different cravings altogether.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on making Texas Twinkies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive in! This dish is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that’s simple and oh-so-rewarding. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy every delicious bite together. Happy cooking!