These Cream Cheese Wontons are crunchy on the outside and rich on the inside, making them the ultimate party snack or appetizer. They come together quickly with simple ingredients and can be customized with various add-ins for a unique twist. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they’re always a hit with family and guests alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cream cheese (softened)
Green onions (finely chopped)
Garlic powder
Wonton wrappers
Egg (for sealing)
Oil (for frying)
Optional add-ins:
Soy sauce
Crushed red pepper
Chopped crab meat or imitation crab for a crab rangoon variation
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, green onions, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth. Add any optional ingredients, if using.
Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
Lightly beat the egg and brush the edges of the wrapper with it.
Fold the wontons into your preferred shape (commonly a triangle or a “purse” shape) and press the edges to seal tightly.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the wontons in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve hot, optionally with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 wontons. Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Total time: approximately 30 minutes
Variations
Baked Cream Cheese Wontons: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Air Fryer Wontons: Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, spraying with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
Spicy Wontons: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
Crab Rangoon: Mix chopped crab or imitation crab into the cream cheese filling for a seafood twist.
Herbed Wontons: Add fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for a flavorful variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or air fry for 5–6 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. You can also freeze uncooked wontons in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag and fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
Can I make cream cheese wontons ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the wontons in advance and refrigerate for a few hours or freeze them for longer storage before cooking.
Do I need to cook the filling before assembling?
No, the cream cheese filling doesn’t need to be pre-cooked. It warms through during frying or baking.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely. Baked wontons won’t be quite as crispy as fried, but they’re a lighter alternative and still delicious.
How do I keep the wontons from opening while frying?
Be sure to seal the edges well with the egg wash and avoid overfilling. Press the edges tightly to prevent leaks.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, flavored cream cheeses like chive, garlic, or jalapeño can add an extra punch of flavor.
What dipping sauces go well with cream cheese wontons?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, duck sauce, or spicy mayo are all excellent choices.
Can I use square or round wonton wrappers?
Either works! Square wrappers are more common and easier to fold into classic shapes.
Are cream cheese wontons the same as crab rangoon?
They’re similar, but crab rangoon includes crab meat in the filling, while cream cheese wontons typically do not.
Can I freeze cooked cream cheese wontons?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Why did my wontons burst during frying?
Overfilling or not sealing the edges properly can cause bursting. Also, make sure the oil is not too hot, which can cause rapid expansion.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Wontons are crispy, creamy, and full of flavor — everything you want in a bite-sized appetizer. With easy prep and versatile cooking options, they’re a must-try whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delicious snack. Make a big batch and watch them disappear in no time.
Cream Cheese Wontons are crispy, golden appetizers filled with a rich and savory cream cheese mixture. Easy to make at home, they’re perfect for parties or a fun snack and can be fried, baked, or air-fried to perfection.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:20 wontons
Category:Appetizer
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Chinese-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
20 wonton wrappers
1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
Oil, for frying
Optional: 1 tsp soy sauce
Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
Optional: 1/3 cup chopped crab meat or imitation crab (for crab rangoon variation)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, green onions, and garlic powder. Add optional ingredients like soy sauce, red pepper, or crab, if desired. Mix until smooth.
Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
Brush the edges of the wrapper with beaten egg.
Fold into desired shape (triangle or purse) and press the edges to seal tightly.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry wontons in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve hot with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Seal wontons tightly to prevent bursting during cooking.Don’t overfill the wrappers; a small spoonful is enough.Use flavored cream cheese for a twist on the classic flavor.To make ahead, freeze assembled wontons before cooking.Baking or air-frying are great alternatives to deep frying.
