Mediterranean Jalapeno Popper Twists
These twists bring together the fun of jalapeno poppers and the bold, bright flavors of Mediterranean cooking. They’re creamy, a little spicy and wrapped in crisp, golden pastry. The filling mixes feta with cream cheese, herbs and chopped jalapenos, giving you a blend of heat and tang without being overwhelming. Twisting the pastry around the filling creates a flaky, layered texture that makes these great for parties, game nights or even a simple appetizer before dinner. They’re easy to prepare and bake quickly, and you can serve them warm or at room temperature. The mix of jalapeno, cheese and herbs feels familiar but still fresh, and they always disappear fast.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 twists
Ingredients
For the Filling:
150 g cream cheese, softened
½ cup crumbled feta
2 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped (remove seeds for mild heat)
1 small garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 tablespoon chopped dill (optional)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Twists:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment.
Mix the cream cheese, feta, jalapenos, garlic, parsley, dill, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.
Roll out the puff pastry to smooth any folds.
Cut the pastry lengthwise into two long rectangles.
Spread the filling evenly over one rectangle.
Place the second rectangle on top to sandwich the filling.
Cut the layered pastry into 12 long strips.
Twist each strip gently a few times and place them on the tray.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
Bake for 15–18 minutes until puffed, golden and crisp.
Tips
Keep the cream cheese soft so it spreads without tearing the pastry.
Remove jalapeno seeds if you want milder heat.
Don’t overload the filling; a thin layer helps the twists bake evenly.
Work quickly so the pastry stays cold and easier to twist.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean strips.
Twist gently; too tight and the filling squeezes out.
If the pastry becomes warm, chill the filled sheet for five minutes before cutting.
Smoked paprika gives a nice depth, but regular paprika works too.
Sesame seeds add a subtle nutty flavor and a nicer finish.
Let the twists sit for a minute after baking so the cheese settles.
Variations
Add chopped olives to the filling for a saltier Mediterranean touch.
Swap feta for goat cheese if you want a creamier taste.
Use roasted red peppers instead of jalapenos for a mild version.
Add a spoon of sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.
Mix in a pinch of chili flakes for more heat.
Replace parsley with basil or mint.
Add caramelized onions for a sweeter twist.
Use phyllo instead of puff pastry for lighter, crispier bites.
Spread a thin layer of pesto inside before adding the filling.
Make mini twists by cutting thinner strips.
Q&A
Can I make these ahead?
Yes. Assemble them and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
Can I freeze them?
Freeze unbaked twists, then bake from frozen with a little extra time.
How spicy are they?
Mild if you remove seeds, medium if you leave some in.
Can I use pickled jalapenos?
Yes, but pat them dry so the filling doesn’t get watery.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and skip the feta.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A hot oven or air fryer keeps them crisp.
Can I make these without smoked paprika?
Absolutely. The other flavors carry the dish.
What pastry works best?
Puff pastry gives the best texture, but crescent dough works in a pinch.
Can kids eat these?
Yes, as long as the jalapenos are seeded and finely chopped.
Do they need a dipping sauce?
They’re great as is, but yogurt dip or tzatziki pairs well.
Nutrition
(per twist, estimated)
Calories: 145
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 170mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Jalapeno Popper Twists combine heat, creaminess and fresh herbs in a way that feels both fun and elegant. The feta adds sharpness, the cream cheese keeps the texture smooth and the jalapenos give the right amount of kick. Wrapped in puff pastry, they bake up flaky and golden, making them perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with a simple meal. They’re easy to customize, and most of the work is done in just a few minutes. If you want a spicier, sweeter or more herb-forward version, these twists adapt easily. If you’d like a dipping sauce pairing next, just let me know.