Description
Crispy, cheesy jalapeño popper wontons deliver a spicy-creamy explosion of flavor in one perfect bite. Guests will devour these irresistible appetizers that combine Mexican-inspired heat with Chinese-style wonton wrapper crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Protein:
- ½ cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Vegetables and Spices:
- 2 jalapenos, finely diced (adjust for spice level)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Wonton and Cooking Ingredients:
- 20 wonton wrappers
- 1 large egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)
- Dipping sauce (ranch or sweet chili sauce recommended)
Instructions
- Create a zesty filling by blending softened cream cheese with sharp cheddar, finely diced jalapenos, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture becomes a smooth, cohesive texture that promises explosive flavor.
- Arrange wonton wrappers on a clean workspace and carefully dollop the jalapeno mixture into the center of each wrapper, ensuring a generous but controlled portion that allows for proper sealing.
- Moisten the edges of each wrapper with water, then transform the square into either a triangular shape or a delicate gathered pocket, pressing firmly to create a tight seal that prevents filling leakage during cooking.
- For deep-frying, heat vegetable oil to 350°F, carefully lowering wontons into the shimmering liquid and frying until they achieve a golden, crispy exterior – approximately 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, for a lighter option, arrange wontons on a parchment-lined baking sheet, mist with cooking spray, and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, rotating midway to ensure uniform crispness.
- Present the sizzling wontons immediately, accompanied by complementary dipping sauces like cooling ranch, tangy blue cheese, or fiery buffalo sauce, creating an irresistible appetizer that balances heat, creaminess, and crunch.
Notes
- Choose soft cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother filling consistency.
- Remove jalapeno seeds to reduce heat while maintaining pepper flavor for milder version.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or monterey jack for extra kick.
- Seal wontons completely to prevent filling leakage during cooking, using water as natural glue.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels to keep wontons crispy and prevent soggy texture.
- Consider air frying as healthier alternative to deep frying, using minimal oil spray.
- Prepare filling ahead of time and refrigerate for more intense flavor development.
- Make vegetarian version by replacing bacon with crispy mushrooms or caramelized onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg