These Wonton Jalapeño Poppers are a fun twist on a classic recipe. They are crispy, spicy, and cheesy, all wrapped up in a crunchy wonton shell that makes them irresistible!
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but sneak one (or five) before serving. They vanish quickly, so I recommend making a double batch. Trust me, your friends will love you for it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative; they work surprisingly well!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring heat, but you can use other peppers like serranos for a spicier kick, or bell peppers for milder flavor. Just adjust to your spice preference.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or a blend of cheeses for added depth.
Wonton Wrappers: These can be found in most grocery stores. If you can’t find them, spring roll wrappers are a solid alternative, but they might need a slightly longer cooking time.
How Do I Get My Wontons Perfectly Sealed?
Sealing wontons to prevent filling from escaping can be tricky. Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Make sure the edges of the wonton wrappers are wet before folding to create a better seal.
- Press firmly to eliminate any air pockets, which can cause the wrappers to burst while frying.
- If using a different shape, just make sure to seal the edges thoroughly to keep the delicious filling inside!
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your first few aren’t picture-perfect. They’ll still taste amazing!
What’s the Best Way to Fry Wontons?
When frying these poppers, doing it right will ensure they’re crispy without being greasy:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) – too low and they’ll absorb oil; too high and they’ll burn. A cooking thermometer is helpful here.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.
Let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them nice and crispy! Enjoy these delightful snacks with friends or family!
Wonton Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3-4 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Wrapping and Frying:
- 1 package wonton wrappers (about 50 wrappers)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Ranch dressing or sour cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and an additional 10 minutes to fry. So, in total, you will need approximately 30 minutes to make these delicious poppers. They’re quick and perfect for a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Then, add in the finely chopped jalapeños, green onions (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
2. Assemble the Poppers:
Grab your wonton wrappers and place them on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the jalapeño cheese mixture into the center of each wrapper. To help seal them, moisten the edges of the wonton wrappers with a bit of water using your finger. This will make it easier to fold and ensure they stay closed.
3. Seal the Wrappers:
Now, fold each wrapper over the filling to create a triangle or a square shape, depending on your preference. Press the edges firmly to seal them tightly, making sure to remove any air pockets that might be trapped inside.
4. Fry the Poppers:
Next, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the filled wontons into the hot oil in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the poppers from the oil and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. While they’re still warm, garnish with chopped green onions if you like. Serve immediately with ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping.
Enjoy these crispy, spicy, cheesy Wonton Jalapeño Poppers fresh and warm! Perfect for parties, game days, or simply as a tasty snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra spice. Mixing cheeses can also create a unique flavor, so feel free to get creative!
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), arrange the poppers on a baking sheet, and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
How Can I Make These Vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Make sure to check the wonton wrappers, as some might contain egg.
