These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are a fun bite-sized treat! Crispy wonton wrappers hold a cheesy, spicy filling that’s sure to please. Super simple and packed with flavor!
Every time I make these, they vanish in a flash! 🥳 I love serving them at parties, and they’re perfect for when you want something quick and tasty to munch on!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton wrappers: These provide a crispy base for the cups. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, eggroll wrappers can be cut into smaller squares. Tortillas are another option for a different texture!
Cream cheese: Essential for the creamy filling, make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. You can use a dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.
Cheddar cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for extra flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some heat. Keep in mind that a cheese blend can add a nice variety!
Jalapeños: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Substitute with mild peppers like poblanos or bell peppers if you’re looking for less spice. Pickled jalapeños can also add a tangy flavor.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch, but for a vegetarian version, try using a plant-based bacon or sun-dried tomatoes for a different kind of savoriness.
How Do I Ensure My Wonton Cups Stay Crispy?
To keep wonton cups crispy, layer your baking process carefully. Pre-baking the wonton wrappers for a few minutes before adding the filling helps set them up to be extra crunchy.
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated. This is key for getting them crispy right away.
- Avoid overfilling the cups. A heaping spoonful should suffice without spilling over.
- Let them cool slightly before serving; this will help solidify the filling and keep the cups from getting soggy.
Follow these steps for the best crispy results! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 40 wonton wrappers
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 3-4 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need about 25-30 minutes to get these delightful bites ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Also, lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin to ensure that your wonton cups won’t stick.
2. Prepare the Wonton Cups:
Take the wonton wrappers and gently press one into each muffin cup, making sure they fit snugly to form a cup shape. This is where all the delicious filling will go!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta (if you’re using it), chopped jalapeños, crumbled bacon, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Now it’s time to fill! Spoon the creamy cheese and jalapeño mixture into each of the wonton cups, filling them generously but not overflowing. They’ll puff up nicely while baking!
5. Bake:
Place your filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the wonton edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbly and melted.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done baking, remove the cups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle with additional crumbled bacon, add some sliced jalapeño rings on top, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are best served warm. They’re crispy, creamy, and delightfully spicy—perfect for any gathering or as a tasty snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can mix and match with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for extra heat, or a good melting cheese like Gouda or Havarti for a unique flavor twist.
How Can I Make These Wonton Cups Vegetarian?
To make them vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon and replace it with a hearty ingredient like diced mushrooms or use a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also boost the veggie content with spinach or artichokes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wonton cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy!
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fill the wonton wrappers and bake as directed. This makes for an easy last-minute appetizer!
