These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are a fun twist on a classic appetizer! Crispy wonton wrappers hold a creamy blend of cheese and spicy jalapenos, making each bite a tasty adventure.
They’re super easy to make and perfect for parties! I love how they add a little kick to any gathering. Just be careful not to eat them all by yourself—you might be tempted! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are the star of the recipe, creating crispy little cups. If you’re out of wonton wrappers, try using phyllo dough, cut into similar sizes, or even mini tart shells for a different twist.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture, making it rich and smooth. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. You might lose some creaminess but gain in health benefits!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, go with mild cheddar or Monterey Jack. You can also mix in some pepper jack cheese for added heat!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos provide heat. If you want a milder version, you can substitute with roasted red peppers or use banana peppers instead.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. You can skip it for a vegetarian version or use turkey bacon for a leaner choice.
How Do I Get My Wonton Cups Crispy?
Getting those wonton cups nice and crispy is key! Start by pressing the wrappers tightly into your muffin tin to maintain their shape. Then, lightly brush or spray them with oil before baking.
- Preheat your oven thoroughly; this helps the cups crisp up faster.
- Don’t overcrowd the muffin tins; give wrappers enough space to expand.
- Watch closely during baking—remove them once they’re golden brown to avoid overcooking.
A little extra care will ensure your Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups come out perfectly crispy every time!
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray or a little vegetable oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for baking, making a total of approximately 35 minutes before you can indulge in these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or a little vegetable oil to help prevent sticking.
2. Shape the Wonton Wrappers:
Take each wonton wrapper and gently press it into a muffin cup, shaping it to form a little cup. Make sure to spray or brush the wrappers with oil so they get nice and crispy when baked.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
4. Add Seasoning:
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cheese mixture. This gives your filling extra flavor—yum!
5. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Grab a spoon and scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cheesy mixture into each wonton cup. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; just get them nice and full!
6. Top with Jalapenos and Bacon:
Sprinkle a few slices of fresh jalapeno on top of each filled cup. Then add some crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
7. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the wonton wrappers are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
8. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cups cool slightly. Carefully take them out of the muffin tin to avoid breaking the cups.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are best enjoyed warm! Serve them as a delicious appetizer or a fun snack. Get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, spicy Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups!
Can I Make These Wonton Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the wonton cups ahead of time by filling them with the cheese mixture, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the oven after letting them sit out for about 10-15 minutes to take the chill off.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match the cheeses based on your preference. You could use pepper jack for more spice, or even a blend of mozzarella and gouda for a creamy texture. Just keep the total amount of cheese around the same as the original recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Wonton Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness, or you can use the microwave, but they may lose some crunch.
What Can I Serve With Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups?
These cups are fantastic on their own, but you can serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also pair well with a fresh salad or some spicy guacamole for an extra zing!
