Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are a crunchy and cheesy treat! These little cups are filled with a delicious mix of cream cheese, jalapenos, and spices. Perfect for any snack time!
These bites are not just tasty; they are super fun to make! I love how easy it is to pop them in the oven and enjoy them fresh and hot. Trust me, they vanish quickly at parties! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are the foundation of your cups. If you can’t find them, you could use phyllo dough or small tortillas. Keep in mind, cooking times may change a bit with these alternatives.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness. If you’re after a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos give a nice heat. If you prefer less spice, use bell peppers instead. Pickled jalapenos are also a great option for a tangy kick, but they’re milder.
Bacon: For a vegetarian version, you can replace bacon with crumbled tofu or cooked mushrooms for an earthy taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds flavor, but you can also use pepper jack for a spicier option or mozzarella for a melty texture.
How Can I Ensure My Wonton Cups Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is key to these cups! Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure the oven is pre-heated to 350°F (175°C) before baking, so the wonton wrappers crisp up properly.
- Press each wonton wrapper firmly into the muffin tin. This helps them form a proper cup shape and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overfill the cups! A teaspoon or so of filling is enough, allowing air to circulate for crispiness.
- Keep an eye on them while they bake. They can go from nicely golden to overdone quickly, usually around 12-15 minutes.
Following these tips will help you achieve delightful, crispy wonton cups that shine with flavor!
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 24 wonton wrappers
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced (reserve some slices for garnish)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Thin slices of fresh jalapeno
- Extra chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in about 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 24-cup mini muffin tin by lightly greasing it or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This will help ensure that your wonton cups come out easily!
2. Forming the Wonton Cups:
Take each wonton wrapper and place it neatly into a mini muffin cup. Gently press the wrapper down into the tin to form a little cup shape, letting the edges stick up high. You want enough space for filling!
3. Mixing the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until it’s evenly blended and creamy.
4. Filling the Cups:
Using a spoon, carefully fill each wonton cup with about 1 to 1½ teaspoons of the cheese filling. Don’t overfill them, or they might spill over while baking!
5. Baking:
Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the wonton edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Cooling and Garnishing:
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the cups cool for a minute. After cooling slightly, garnish each wonton cup with a slice of fresh jalapeno and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm, crispy, and creamy jalapeno popper wonton cups at your next gathering. They make for an excellent finger food or appetizer that everyone will love!
Enjoy the combination of crispy texture, creamy filling, and a hint of spice from the jalapenos! Your guests will be coming back for seconds!
Can I Use Frozen Wonton Wrappers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before using. You can leave them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they’re pliable.
How Do I Store Leftover Wonton Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, fill the wonton cups and bake as directed!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or even Greek yogurt. Both alternatives will still provide creaminess but with fewer calories!