These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are a fun twist on the classic appetizer! With crispy wonton wrappers filled with creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon, they’re hard to resist.
They’re perfect for parties, or just a night in! I love how easy they are to make—pop them in the oven, and in no time, you’ve got a tasty snack that packs a punch without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton wrappers: These create the crispy cup base. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, try using egg roll wrappers. Just cut them down to size for a similar effect!
Cream cheese: Essential for that rich and creamy filling. You could substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Cheddar and mozzarella cheese: This combo gives great flavor and gooey texture. If you want a kick, try pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella!
Bacon: I love bacon for that smoky flavor, but you can use turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian option, try chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos give heat and flavor. If you prefer less heat, use pickled jalapenos instead, or omit them entirely for a milder cup!
How Do I Get My Wonton Cups Extra Crispy?
To make sure your wonton cups are beautifully crispy, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven properly to 350°F (175°C) before baking. This ensures even cooking.
- When pressing the wonton wrappers, slightly overlap the edges to form a cup. This helps create a stronger base and allows for even browning.
- Lightly brush or spray the edges of the wontons with oil before baking. It helps them puff up and become golden brown.
- Keep an eye on them in the oven! Each oven is different, so the last few minutes are key to achieving that perfect crispness.
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 30 wonton wrappers
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon (about 6 slices)
- 2-3 fresh jalapenos, diced (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- Cooking spray or a little oil for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking, making it a quick and easy dish. Total time is around 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for an impromptu gathering or snack time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly spray a muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent the wontons from sticking.
2. Prepare the Wonton Cups:
Take each wonton wrapper and gently press it into each muffin cup of the prepared tin. Make sure to press it down so it forms a nice cup shape, allowing the edges to stick out a bit over the edge of the tin.
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, diced jalapenos, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy. This is where all the deliciousness happens!
4. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Spoon about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the cheesy mixture into each wonton cup, filling them generously but not overflowing.
5. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the wontons are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. You want them crispy and delicious!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cups cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This will make them easier to remove. Garnish each cup with a slice of fresh jalapeno for a pop of color and extra flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully take the wonton cups out of the muffin tin and serve them warm. Enjoy your flavorful Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups—crisp, creamy, and just spicy enough to be addictive!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can switch up the cheeses based on your preference. For a stronger flavor, try using sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for a kick. Just ensure you have a creamy cheese like cream cheese to maintain that rich texture.
Can I Make These Wonton Cups in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble and bake the wonton cups right before serving for optimal crispness!
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
If you’re not a fan of spice, you can reduce or completely omit the jalapenos. You can also use mild peppers or chopped bell peppers as a flavorful alternative that won’t add heat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy again!
