These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are mini flavor bombs, combining creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos in crispy wonton wrappers. Perfect for snacking and entertaining!
Making these cups is always a blast! I love serving them at parties because they disappear quickly. They’re also so easy to whip up, you’ll find yourself making them on a regular basis!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are essential for the crispy cups. You can substitute with phyllo dough if you’re in a pinch, but it won’t be as easy to mold.
Cream Cheese: This forms the creamy base of the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic, but feel free to use pepper jack for extra kick or mozzarella for a milder taste!
Jalapenos: You can adjust the heat by removing the seeds and membranes, but if you’d like a milder version, try using banana peppers instead.
Bacon: For a vegetarian option, you can use crumbled tempeh or omit it entirely. Alternatively, turkey bacon is a lighter substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Wonton Cups Are Crispy?
To get those perfectly crispy wonton cups, follow these tips:
- Press the wonton wrappers firmly into the muffin tin to avoid any air pockets that can lead to sogginess.
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even cooking.
- Keep an eye on them while baking, since ovens can vary; you want a nice golden brown color.
Allow them to cool for a few moments before serving—this helps the structure firm up, giving you that perfect crunch!
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 2 jalapenos, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or a little oil for muffin tin
- Optional: ranch dressing or sour cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish, and in no time, you’ll have delicious little bites ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your wonton cups bake evenly. While the oven is warming up, lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, crumbled bacon (set aside a bit for topping later), chopped green onions (save some for garnish), and the black pepper. Stir the mixture well until everything is nicely combined and creamy.
3. Assemble the Wonton Cups:
Take one wonton wrapper and place it in each mini muffin cup. Gently press the wrapper down to form a cup shape. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture into each wonton cup, spreading it out evenly.
4. Add Jalapenos and Garnish:
Top your cheese-filled cups with 2-3 slices of jalapeno, depending on how spicy you want them. Then, sprinkle the reserved bacon and green onions on top for some extra flavor and color.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! They should be golden brown and crispy when they’re ready.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the wonton cups cool for a few minutes. Then, gently take them out of the muffin tin. Serve these tasty cups warm, with ranch dressing or sour cream on the side for dipping if you like!
Enjoy your crispy, creamy, spicy Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other types like pepper jack for added spice, mozzarella for a milder flavor, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique twist. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
Can I Make These Wonton Cups Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the filling and assemble the wonton cups up to a day in advance. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly—no need to thaw!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover jalapeno popper wonton cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze These Wonton Cups?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked wonton cups filled with the cheese mixture! Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.