These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are a fun twist on a classic appetizer! Crispy wontons are filled with a creamy mixture of cheese and spicy jalapenos. Yum!
They’re perfect for parties or game days! I love how easy they are to make—I can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy the cheesy goodness while watching the game! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: Wonton wrappers create the perfect crispy base for these cups. If you can’t find them, you can use egg roll wrappers, just cut them into smaller squares. Alternatively, phyllo pastry sheets layered and cut work well for a flaky texture.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a rich, creamy filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version. Don’t hesitate to mix in some sour cream for extra tang!
Cheddar & Mozzarella: I choose sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. You can mix up the cheeses based on your preference, like pepper jack for added spice, or make it all mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos add a nice kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, use mild peppers, like poblano, or omit them altogether for a less spicy version. You can also add in roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
Bacon: Bacon provides a lovely crunch and smoky taste. For a vegetarian alternative, use crumbled tempeh bacon, or omit it and add more cheese instead. I sometimes use prosciutto for a gourmet touch!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Wonton Cups?
Creating crispy wonton cups is all about the right technique! Follow these steps for success:
- Preheat your oven well; this helps the wontons crisp up quickly. Make sure it’s at 350°F (175°C) before you start.
- Press the wonton wrappers snugly into the muffin tin. If they’re too loose, they won’t hold their shape. Try folding the corners to fit perfectly.
- Don’t overfill the cups! A tablespoon or so is enough. The filling expands, so leave some room.
- Bake until golden brown and bubbly, usually 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin. This helps maintain their shape, preventing them from sticking.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with these tasty snacks! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped (reserve some thin slices for garnish)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10-15 minutes of prep time and an additional 12-15 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bites in approximately 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, get your muffin tin ready. Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a little oil.
2. Shape the Wonton Cups:
Take each wonton wrapper and gently press it into the muffin tin to form little cups. Make sure they fit snugly. You can use a muffin cup to help press them down if needed.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, finely chopped jalapenos, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s combined and creamy.
4. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Spoon about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of the cheese and jalapeno mixture into each wonton cup. Be careful not to overfill them so they don’t spill during baking!
5. Bake the Cups:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese filling is bubbly and delicious.
6. Garnish:
Once out of the oven, take a moment to garnish each cup. Add a thin slice of fresh jalapeno on top, followed by a sprinkle of crumbled bacon and some chopped green onions to make them look extra special.
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the cups to cool for just a few minutes to firm up. Then, gently remove them from the muffin tin using a fork or small spatula.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups warm and enjoy these spicy, creamy, and crispy bites with friends and family!
Can I Make These Wonton Cups Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the wonton cups and fill them with the mixture a few hours in advance. Cover them and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. They might take an extra minute or two in the oven if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up!
Can I Freeze These Wonton Cups?
Yes, you can freeze the filled cups before baking! Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Jalapenos?
If jalapenos are too spicy for your taste, you can use mild bell peppers or poblano peppers instead. For a different flavor, diced roasted red peppers also work well!
