Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cream cheese wontons are a crispy, creamy, and savory appetizer that is always a hit at parties and gatherings. These delicious bite-sized treats are easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Whether served as a snack, an appetizer, or a side dish for an Asian-inspired meal, they are always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy wonton wrappers and creamy, tangy filling creates an irresistible contrast in texture and flavor. Plus, they can be customized with different seasonings and fillings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese
Wonton wrappers
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Green onions (optional)
Soy sauce (optional)
Egg (for sealing)
Oil (for frying)
Sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce (for dipping)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped green onions if using.
Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface.
Place a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each wrapper.
Lightly beat the egg and use it to moisten the edges of the wonton wrappers.
Fold the wrappers diagonally to create a triangle or bring all corners together to form a pouch, ensuring the edges are sealed tightly.
Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the wontons in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve warm with sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 20 wontons
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of sriracha to the cream cheese mixture.
Sweet Version: Mix in a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract for a dessert-style wonton.
Meaty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped cooked shrimp, crab, or bacon for extra flavor.
Baked Option: Instead of frying, brush with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked wontons on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

FAQs

How do I prevent wontons from opening while frying?

Ensure the edges are well-sealed by pressing firmly and using a bit of egg wash or water as an adhesive.

Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers?

Yes, store-bought wonton wrappers work perfectly and save time.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes is a great alternative.

What dipping sauces go well with cream cheese wontons?

Sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo pair well with these wontons.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead and store them in the fridge for a few hours or freeze them for longer storage.

What type of oil is best for frying wontons?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best.

Can I add other fillings to the cream cheese mixture?

Absolutely! Try adding crab, shrimp, or finely chopped jalapenos for extra flavor.

How do I keep the wontons crispy?

Serve them immediately after frying and avoid stacking them to prevent steaming.

Can I air fry cream cheese wontons?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are cream cheese wontons the same as crab rangoons?

Not exactly. Crab rangoons include crab meat, while cream cheese wontons are typically just filled with seasoned cream cheese.

Conclusion

Cream cheese wontons are a simple yet delicious appetizer that is easy to make at home. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these crispy delights are perfect for any occasion. With plenty of variations and dipping sauces to choose from, they can be tailored to your taste preferences. Try making them at home and enjoy a restaurant-style treat right from your kitchen!

Cream Cheese Wontons