Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are a fun twist on a classic snack! These little cups are filled with cream cheese, spicy jalapenos, and topped with crispy bacon. Yum!
I love how easy they are to make—just fill the wonton skins and bake! They always disappear at parties faster than I can grab one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are the base of your cups. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers, just cut them into smaller squares. Some people enjoy making their own wrappers, but I find store-bought ones super convenient.
Cream Cheese: This is crucial for the creamy texture. You can substitute low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option. Some use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, but it won’t be as creamy.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for added flavor. You can swap it with pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring the spice! If you want less heat, use banana peppers instead, or you can eliminate them altogether. For more convenience, jarred jalapenos can work too.
How Do You Perfectly Bake Wonton Cups?
Baking wonton cups to perfection is all about the timing and temperature. You want them crispy but not burnt. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting. This ensures even cooking.
- Lightly grease your muffin tin so the wontons won’t stick. You don’t want your delicious cups tearing apart!
- Fill the cups generously but avoid overfilling, as the mixture will expand while baking.
- Keep an eye on them during baking! After about 12 minutes, check for golden edges and bubbly filling.
Let them cool for a minute before removing. This helps keep their shape! Enjoy your tasty creations!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3-4 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped, plus 6 thin slices for topping
- 4 green onions, finely chopped
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need around 12-15 minutes for baking. So, in just about 25-30 minutes, you can have a delicious snack ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, you can prepare your muffin tin. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Shape the Wonton Wrappers:
Take each wonton wrapper and gently press it into the muffin tin cups. Make sure to form them into little cups that are deep enough to hold your filling. This step is super fun!
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapenos, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a fork or a spatula to blend everything until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Now, grab a spoon and fill each wonton wrapper cup with about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of your creamy mixture. Don’t be shy—fill them up! Just don’t overfill, or you might make a mess.
5. Add the Bacon:
It’s bacon time! Sprinkle the crumbled crispy bacon over each filled cup. Trust me, this will add a delicious crunch!
6. Top with Jalapeno Slices:
For a little garnish and some extra heat, place a thin slice of jalapeno on each cup. This will make your Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups look extra tasty and inviting!
7. Bake Away:
Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want the wonton wrappers to be golden brown and the filling to be hot and bubbly—so good!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Carefully take the cups out of the muffin tin. They are easier to handle when they’ve cooled just a little.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups warm as a delightful snack or appetizer. Get ready for some compliments because these crispy, creamy, spicy bites will surely impress your friends and family!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can use pepper jack for added spice, mozzarella for a milder flavor, or even a Mexican blend for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the overall flavor of the cups.
What If I Don’t Have Wonton Wrappers?
If you can’t find wonton wrappers, egg roll wrappers can be a great alternative—just cut them into smaller squares. You could even try phyllo dough, though that will yield a different texture. Be sure to adjust the baking time as needed!
Can I Make These Cups in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and fill the wonton cups ahead of time! Just store them in the fridge for up to a day, then bake them right before serving. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (if they last that long!), store them 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!
