These Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups are crispy little bites packed with cheesy goodness and a spicy kick! They’re perfect for sharing, or just keeping to yourself if you can’t resist!
Honestly, these are so fun to make, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings. I love serving them at parties—you’ll be the star of the snack table! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are essential for the cup shape. You can also use phyllo dough or puff pastry if you’re in a pinch, but make sure to adjust the baking time as they may cook faster.
Cream Cheese: This provides creaminess to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthier twist.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a richer flavor! If you want to switch it up, a blend with pepper jack will bring extra heat, or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Jalapenos: Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer milder flavors, try using roasted red peppers or even sweet bell peppers for a different touch.
Bacon: For a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and add a bit of smoked paprika to give that smoky flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Wonton Cups?
To achieve that crispiness, it’s all about the right technique with baking. Here are some helpful tips:
- Greasing the Tin: Don’t skip this step! A light coating helps the wontons release easily and ensures even browning.
- Shaping the Wontons: Make sure to press them firmly into the muffin tin. This helps them mold into nice cup shapes without falling apart.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on them as they bake; ovens can vary. You’re looking for a golden brown edge, which usually takes around 10-12 minutes.
Let them cool slightly before removing them from the tin. This will make handling them much easier!
Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 3 jalapenos, seeds removed and finely diced (adjust to taste)
- 4 strips cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little vegetable oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes of baking time. Allow an additional few minutes for cooling after baking. In total, you will need around 30 minutes to whip up these delicious Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a little vegetable oil. This will ensure your wonton cups release easily after baking.
2. Forming the Wonton Cups:
Take one wonton wrapper and gently press it into each cup of the muffin tin, ensuring it fits snugly and forms a cup shape. Don’t worry about getting them perfect—just make sure they’re relatively even.
3. Make the Cheesy Filling:
In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced jalapenos (remember to save a few for garnishing), chopped bacon, white parts of the green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good mix until it’s well combined; it’s like creamy, cheesy heaven!
4. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Using a spoon, carefully fill each wonton cup with about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of the cheesy filling. Don’t overfill them—just enough to give a nice little mound on top.
5. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You want to see the edges of the wontons turn golden brown and the cheese filling bubbling; that’s when they’re ready!
6. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the cups to cool for a few minutes inside the pan. Then, gently run a fork or a butter knife around the edges to help release the cups and carefully lift them out.
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish the tops of your Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups with any reserved diced jalapenos and the green parts of the green onions. You can also sprinkle some crumbled bacon or extra cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy!
8. Enjoy the Delights!
Serve these cheesy, spicy treats warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering. Get ready for everyone to ask for the recipe!
These crispy, cheesy cups not only have a delicious spicy kick from the jalapenos but also the smoky flavor from the bacon—ideal finger food for parties or cozy nights in!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with cream cheese and pepper jack for extra heat, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount to your taste!
How Can I Make These Wonton Cups Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and consider adding more vegetables like sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms. You could also add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the wonton cups and fill them with the cheesy mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Jalapeno Popper Wonton Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for that crispy texture!