Crispy Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wontons: The Ultimate Spicy & Creamy Appetizer
Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wontons are a phenomenal twist on the classic jalapeño popper, offering a delightful combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors encased in a perfectly crispy fried wonton wrapper. These irresistible bites are an absolute showstopper, ideal for any gathering, a game day snack, or even a satisfying treat for an afternoon craving. While deep-frying yields that coveted golden-brown crispness, we’ll also explore popular alternative cooking methods like baking and air frying, making these versatile poppers accessible to everyone. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this unique and incredibly flavorful recipe!
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About These Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wontons
As a huge enthusiast of all things spicy, I’m always on the hunt for appetizers that deliver that perfect kick. You might already know this from my Big ‘n Smoky Five Alarm Burger and my Spicy Green Bloody Mary, but my love for heat knows no bounds! That’s precisely why classic cream cheese jalapeño poppers have always been a top-tier appetizer in my book. The harmonious blend of creamy cheese and the vibrant spice of the peppers creates a truly addictive experience.
These wontons offer a similar sensation: a burst of fiery flavor that is almost immediately soothed by the rich, cool filling. They’re light enough not to be overly filling, making them a fantastic companion for a crisp, chilled beer. However, these aren’t just any ordinary jalapeño poppers; they’re an elevated, “amped-up” version designed for maximum flavor and textural delight.
Introducing my incredibly easy-to-make, yet technically distinct, version of a jalapeño popper: the Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wonton! The star-studded filling contains all the beloved elements of a traditional popper – jalapeños, cream cheese, and a blend of other savory cheeses – but with a special, surprising twist: creamy avocado. While it might sound unconventional at first, the avocado brings an unparalleled silkiness and richness that beautifully complements the other ingredients. It enhances the creamy texture, adds a subtle, fresh flavor, and even boosts the nutritional profile with healthy fats and a touch of protein. This combination wrapped in a crispy fried wonton shell creates a truly unforgettable appetizer, perfect for backyard BBQs, tailgating events, or simply a quick, gourmet snack when you desire something extraordinary.
Mastering the Spice Level
One of the best aspects of these jalapeño popper wontons is their customizable heat level. The base recipe provides just the right amount of pleasant warmth, but you have full control to adjust it according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, ensure you completely remove all seeds and membranes from your jalapeños before dicing them. The seeds and the white pith (placenta) are where most of the capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat, resides.
For a detailed guide on how to properly seed a jalapeño, I’ve got a dedicated post with all my best tips and tricks. I highly recommend seeding them for a balanced spice, but if you’re a true heat-seeker and crave an extra fiery kick, feel free to leave some (or all!) of the seeds in. For the truly adventurous, you could even experiment with hotter peppers like serranos, habaneros, or even ghost peppers – but be warned, those are for the seriously brave! As for me, I’m a proud jalapeño girl, and I stick to the classic heat profile that this recipe perfectly delivers.
Note: This content is an updated and expanded version of the original article published on June 30, 2017.
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Wontons
Creating these sensational jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons requires a carefully selected list of ingredients that balance richness, spice, and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Cream Cheese: The foundation of our creamy filling. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth consistency. This provides the essential tang and richness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I personally love a sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, which adds depth and a pleasant sharpness to the filling. However, mild or medium cheddar works perfectly well if you prefer a more subtle cheese profile.
- Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese contributes to the wonderfully gooey, melty texture of the filling once cooked, balancing the sharpness of the cheddar.
- Avocado: The secret ingredient! You’ll need one ripe, large avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed. It adds an incredible silky creaminess that complements the cheeses, along with a boost of healthy fats and a subtle, fresh taste that elevates the entire appetizer. Don’t worry, it stays green inside!
- Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder are essential for building a savory base, providing aromatic notes that round out the cheese and pepper flavors. A touch of salt enhances all the ingredients.
- Fresh Cilantro: Finely chopped fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous, and zesty freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese. While dried cilantro can be used in a pinch, fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor; if using dried, remember to halve the amount.
- Jalapeños: The star of the show for that signature spicy kick. Make sure to seed and dice them according to your preferred heat level. Refer to my guide on how to seed a jalapeño if you need tips for managing the heat.
- Wonton Wrappers: These delicate, thin wrappers are readily available in the refrigerated section of most major supermarkets, usually near other specialty Asian ingredients or fresh pasta. Gyoza wrappers can be a substitute, but they are round and will result in a half-moon shape instead of the classic triangle.
- Frying Oil: For deep frying, a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point is crucial. Canola oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil are all excellent choices. I personally find that vegetable oil can sometimes impart a slight lingering flavor, so canola or avocado are my top picks for the cleanest taste.
- Hot Honey (Optional): A drizzle of hot honey is highly recommended for a truly exceptional sweet-and-spicy contrast that takes these wontons from delicious to absolutely divine. Plain honey also works beautifully if you prefer just the sweetness.
Essential Equipment for Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in preparing these delicious wontons efficiently and safely:
- Chef’s Knife: A high-quality chef’s knife is invaluable for uniformly dicing jalapeños and other ingredients. My favorite brand offers a lifetime of free sharpening, making it a kitchen essential.
- Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: For frying, a heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven is crucial. It maintains a consistent oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and perfectly golden-brown wontons without burning. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile for many other dishes!
- Spider Strainer: An absolute must-have for safe frying. This tool allows you to easily and securely retrieve the wontons from hot oil, preventing burns and making the process much smoother.
- Mixing Bowls: Stainless steel mixing bowls are great for preparing the filling and keeping your workspace organized.
- Utility Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is necessary for safe and efficient ingredient preparation.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Your Wontons
Crafting these delectable jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve appetizer perfection:
Prepare the Creamy, Spicy Filling
Begin by combining all the filling ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl. This includes your room-temperature cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mashed avocado, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, finely chopped fresh cilantro, and the diced jalapeños. Using a spoon or a rubber spatula, stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well-incorporated and you have a smooth, uniform mixture. Set this flavorful filling aside while you prepare your wonton wrappers.
Assemble the Wontons with Ease
For efficient assembly, ensure you have a clean, flat work surface. Take one wonton wrapper and lay it flat so that one of its corners points directly towards you, forming a diamond shape. Dip your finger into a small bowl of water and lightly moisten all four edges of the wrapper – this will help create a strong seal. Place approximately one teaspoon of the creamy filling into the center of the wonton wrapper. Now, carefully fold the wrapper in half diagonally, bringing the corner closest to you up to meet the opposite corner, forming a triangle. Gently press around the filling to remove any air pockets, then firmly press the edges together to seal the wonton completely. Air pockets can cause the wontons to burst during frying, so a good seal is key! Repeat this process with the remaining filling and wonton wrappers until all are assembled.
Fry to Golden Perfection
In a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 to 2 inches of your chosen cooking oil (canola or avocado oil are recommended) over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it reaches approximately 375°F (190°C) on an oil thermometer, or when a small piece of wonton wrapper dropped in sizzles immediately and floats to the surface. Fry the assembled wontons in small batches of 3 to 5 at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy wontons. Fry each batch for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are deliciously crispy. Using a spider strainer, carefully remove the fried wontons and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately, perhaps with a delightful drizzle of hot honey for that extra special touch!
Gatherings Made Easy: Love all things SPICY?! Be sure to make this Chile Beer Sangria to go along with this appetizer and turn up the heat on your next gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where Can I Find Wonton Wrappers?
Wonton wrappers are a common ingredient and are typically found in the refrigerated section of your local supermarket. Look for them near other specialty Asian ingredients like tofu, fresh noodles, or sometimes even alongside fresh pasta. If you have trouble locating them in a larger grocery store, a local Asian grocery store will almost certainly have them. They are usually sold in square or round packages.
Can I Make These Jalapeño Popper Wontons Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! While these wontons are undeniably best when served fresh and hot, you can prepare them in advance. Assemble the wontons as instructed, then place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to serve, simply fry, bake, or air fry as usual. Leftovers can also be reheated, though they might lose some initial crispness.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a fantastic alternative for a lighter version of these jalapeño popper wontons. To bake, preheat your oven to 375˚F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Place the assembled wontons in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. For best results and a crispier exterior, lightly spray the tops of the wontons with cooking spray or brush with a little oil. Bake for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary between ovens.
Can These Jalapeño Wontons Be Air Fried?
Indeed! Air frying offers another convenient and healthier cooking method that still delivers a wonderfully crispy texture. To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 380˚F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket or insert with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the wontons in a single layer in the basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 10 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through (at the 5-minute mark) to ensure even browning and crispness on all sides. Enjoy your perfectly air-fried wontons!
Does the Avocado Turn Brown Inside the Wontons?
One common concern with avocado is its tendency to oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. However, rest assured that in this recipe, the avocado remains vibrant green inside the wonton filling, even after cooking! The combination of being mixed with other ingredients like cream cheese, and then sealed within the wrapper and cooked, helps to protect it from browning, preserving its color and fresh flavor.
Can I Skip the Avocado in This Recipe?
While the avocado adds a unique creaminess and nutritional boost that we highly recommend, you can certainly omit it if you prefer. If you choose to skip the avocado, note that the total volume of the filling will be slightly reduced, meaning you might end up with a handful fewer wontons than the recipe suggests. The wontons will still be delicious with just the cheesy, spicy filling!
Can I Freeze Jalapeño Popper Wontons?
Yes, these wontons freeze beautifully, both before and after cooking! For best results, if freezing uncooked wontons, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag for up to 1-2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If freezing cooked wontons, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them similarly. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until crispy and warmed through.
Tips for Extra Crispy Wontons
Achieving that ultimate crispy texture is key for these wontons. Here are a few tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature. Overcrowding drops the temperature, leading to soggy, oil-soaked wontons.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Use an oil thermometer to keep your oil at a steady 375°F (190°C). If it gets too low, the wontons absorb too much oil; too high, and they burn before the filling heats through.
- Drain Properly: Always transfer fried wontons to a plate lined with paper towels immediately after removing them from the oil. This helps absorb excess grease, ensuring maximum crispness.
- Serve Immediately: For the absolute best crunch, serve these wontons right after they come out of the oil (or oven/air fryer).
Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizers recipe page for a wealth of ideas!
Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings for Your Wontons
These jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- Hot Honey Drizzle: My absolute favorite way to serve these is with a generous drizzle of hot honey. The sweet heat from the honey creates an exquisite contrast with the savory, spicy, and creamy wonton filling. If you prefer less heat, a simple drizzle of plain honey is equally delicious.
- Dipping Sauces:
- Salsa: A classic tomato-based salsa is a fantastic choice. Opt for a smoother, restaurant-style salsa rather than a chunky variety for easier dipping.
- Mango Chutney: For an exotic twist, some readers have raved about serving these with a dollop of sweet and tangy mango chutney on top of each wonton. The fruitiness pairs wonderfully with the spice.
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: For a cooling and creamy counterpoint to the spice, a good quality ranch or blue cheese dressing can be surprisingly delightful.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet chili dipping sauce offers another sweet and spicy dimension that complements the wontons beautifully.
- Complementary Appetizers: If you’re hosting a spread, consider pairing these with other game day snacks. For fellow jalapeño popper enthusiasts, you simply must try this jalapeño popper dip. It’s a crowd-pleaser that expands on the same beloved flavors.
- Cocktail Pairings: Don’t forget the drinks! The spice of these wontons calls for something refreshing. Consider a simple gin and ginger ale for a light and bubbly contrast, or a sophisticated bourbon manhattan if you prefer a richer, more complex beverage to cut through the heat. There are tons of easy game day snacks and drink recipes to inspire your perfect pairing!
Storage and Reheating Tips
While these wontons are best enjoyed fresh, here’s how to properly store and reheat any leftovers to maintain their deliciousness:
- Storage: Allow any leftover jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To bring them back to their crispy glory, reheating in an oven or air fryer is recommended.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190°C). Arrange the wontons in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and have regained their desired crispness.
- Air Fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 350˚F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method works wonders for restoring crispiness!
Microwaving is generally not recommended as it can make them soggy.
Finally, if you whip up these incredible jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please consider leaving a recipe rating or a comment below. Your feedback truly brightens my day, and I make an effort to respond to every single one. Feel free to ask any questions you might have about the recipe, too! And for a bonus, be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share your culinary creations – seeing these recipes come to life in your kitchens is my favorite part. It means the world to me!
Everyday Seasonal Cookbook: Discover More Recipes
Expand your culinary horizons with my Everyday Seasonal Cookbook! This comprehensive guide is packed with delicious seasonal recipes, helpful produce guides, and inspiring ideas for every occasion. Learn how to cook with the freshest ingredients year-round and create memorable meals that celebrate the best of each season.
Jalapeño Avocado Cream Cheese Wontons: Full Recipe
Equipment
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Spider Strainer
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Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet (or Dutch Oven)
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Utility Cutting Board
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Oil Thermometer (optional, but recommended for frying)
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 2/3 cup cheddar cheese shredded (sharp preferred)
- 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 large avocado peeled, pitted, and mashed
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp fresh chopped cilantro
- 3 jalapeños seeded and finely diced (adjust for desired heat)
- 1 package wonton wrappers (approx. 40-50 wrappers)
- Canola Oil (or avocado oil, for frying)
- Optional: hot honey or plain honey, for serving
- Water (for sealing wontons)
Instructions
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Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mashed avocado, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, fresh chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeños. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well-combined and the mixture is smooth.
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Assemble Wontons: Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean work surface, with a corner pointing towards you (diamond shape). Lightly moisten all four edges of the wrapper with water using your finger.
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Place about 1 teaspoon of the prepared filling in the center of the wonton wrapper.
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Fold the wrapper in half diagonally to form a triangle, bringing the bottom corner to meet the top corner. Gently press around the filling to remove any air pockets, then firmly press the edges to seal completely. Ensure a tight seal to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking. Repeat this process with the remaining filling and wrappers.
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Heat Oil for Frying: In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 to 2 inches of canola or avocado oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C) on an oil thermometer, or when a small piece of wonton wrapper dropped in sizzles and floats immediately.
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Fry Wontons: Carefully add wontons in batches of 3-4 at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for approximately 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Drain and Serve: Use a spider strainer to remove the fried wontons and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately, optionally drizzled with hot honey for an extra layer of flavor!
Video
Notes
How to Air Fry: To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 380˚F (195°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange wontons in a single layer and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Make Ahead: Assemble wontons up to 24 hours in advance, cover loosely, and refrigerate. Cook as directed when ready to serve.
Freezing: Uncooked wontons can be frozen on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transferred to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few minutes to cook time.