Crispy Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wontons: The Ultimate Spicy, Creamy, and Easy Appetizer
Experience an explosion of flavor with these Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wontons! They take your favorite classic jalapeño popper appetizer and elevate it to new heights, delivering a delightful crunch and a burst of creamy, spicy goodness in every bite. Imagine a perfectly seasoned, velvety filling of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella, infused with fresh jalapeños and the unique richness of avocado, all snugly wrapped in a crisp, golden-fried wonton. While frying them to golden perfection is our preferred method, these versatile poppers can also be baked or prepared in an air fryer, making them an ideal party appetizer or a satisfying afternoon snack for any occasion.
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About These Jalapeño Popper Wontons
As a huge fan of all things spicy, I’m always looking for ways to inject some heat into my cooking. If you’ve been following my culinary adventures, you’ll know I love a good kick, from my bold Big ‘n Smoky Five Alarm Burger to my vibrant Spicy Green Bloody Mary. This passion for flavor and spice is why classic cream cheese jalapeño poppers have always held a special place in my heart.
There’s something magical about the combination of cool, creamy cheese and the fiery kick of jalapeños. It’s that perfect balance that lights up your taste buds, then gently soothes the heat, all in one incredible bite. Traditional jalapeño poppers are truly one of those appetizers that are never too heavy and pair beautifully with a chilled drink, making them a go-to for any gathering.
The Wonton Twist: An Easier, Tastier Popper
But what if we could make them even better? Even easier? Say hello to my deliciously simple take on a jalapeño popper, one that technically isn’t a popper at all, but rather a fantastic wonton creation! These Jalapeño Popper Avocado Wontons encapsulate all the beloved flavors of the original, but in a more convenient, crispy, and utterly irresistible package. The filling features all the ingredients you adore: a harmonious blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and gooey mozzarella, enhanced by fresh jalapeño. And for that special, unexpected touch? Our guest of honor, the humble avocado!
This inspired addition of avocado might sound a little unconventional, but trust me, it’s a game-changer! The rich, buttery creaminess of the avocado marries beautifully with the sharpness of the cheeses and the spice of the jalapeño. It not only adds an extra layer of velvety texture, making the filling incredibly silky, but also contributes a subtle, earthy depth of flavor and healthy fats. This unique combination perfectly complements the crisp, fried exterior of the wonton wrapper, creating an appetizer that’s truly extraordinary.
These jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for backyard BBQs, spirited tailgating or homegating parties, or simply when you crave a more exciting and substantial snack than mere cheese and crackers. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that offers a delightful blend of textures and bold flavors, ensuring everyone reaches for another.
Are They Really Spicy? Tailoring the Heat
These jalapeño popper wontons offer a fantastic balance of heat, creaminess, and flavor, with just the right amount of kick to keep things interesting. However, the beauty of this recipe is that you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your personal preference and heat tolerance. The majority of the heat in a jalapeño comes from the seeds and the white membrane (placenta) inside the pepper, which contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for its spiciness.
For those who prefer a milder spice, I highly recommend seeding the jalapeños thoroughly before dicing them. If you need a refresher on how to seed a jalapeño safely and efficiently, I’ve dedicated a whole post to my top tips and tricks to guide you. Always remember to wear gloves when handling hot peppers to prevent skin irritation, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
If you’re a true spice fiend and crave an extra fiery experience, feel free to leave some or all of the seeds and membranes in. For an even more intense heat, you could experiment with other hotter peppers like serrano peppers for a noticeable upgrade in spice. Or, if you’re feeling truly adventurous (or, as I like to say, completely insane!), you could even try habaneros or ghost peppers – but proceed with extreme caution! While a burst of intense heat can be exhilarating, I personally find that the classic jalapeño offers the perfect amount of warmth without overpowering the other delicious flavors in this creamy appetizer. So, I’ll be sticking with the original recipe here!
Note: this is an updated version of the original published on June 30, 2017.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Jalapeño Popper Wontons
Crafting these delectable jalapeño popper avocado wontons requires a few key ingredients that perfectly balance creaminess, spice, and crunch. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is vital:
- Cheese Blend: The heart of the filling! You’ll need full-fat cream cheese for its rich, tangy base and smooth texture. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a sharp, savory depth, while mozzarella cheese provides that irresistible meltiness and a slight stretch when hot. I always opt for a sharp cheddar for an extra flavor boost, but mild or medium cheddar works just as well.
- Avocado: The secret ingredient! A single large, ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed with a fork, is all it takes. The avocado contributes an unparalleled creaminess that makes the filling incredibly luxurious, and it also adds a subtle, earthy flavor and healthy fats, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
- Aromatic Spices: Simple yet effective. Garlic powder and onion powder provide a foundational savory flavor without adding excess moisture that fresh garlic or onion might. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.
- Fresh Cilantro: This vibrant herb adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and avocado. Fresh cilantro is always best for its bright, aromatic qualities. If you must use dried, remember to halve the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Jalapeño Peppers: The star of the show for that signature spicy kick. As mentioned, be sure to seed the jalapeños before dicing them finely for even distribution and controllable heat. Refer to my how to seed a jalapeño guide for detailed instructions. If you enjoy a more intense heat, you can leave some seeds in, but I prefer them removed for a balanced flavor.
- Wonton Wrappers: These thin, square dough sheets are readily available in the refrigerated section of most local supermarkets, usually near other specialty cheeses or produce. They fry up incredibly crispy and hold the filling perfectly. As an alternative, gyoza wrappers (often round) can be used, which will result in a half-moon shape instead of the classic triangle.
- Frying Oil: For achieving that irresistible golden-brown crisp, I recommend a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil or avocado oil. While vegetable oil can be used, I find it sometimes imparts a lingering flavor that I prefer to avoid. Ensure you have enough oil to submerge the wontons for even frying.
- Hot Honey (Optional): A drizzle of hot honey is the perfect finishing touch! The sweet and spicy combination provides a delicious contrast to the savory, creamy wontons, elevating them to a gourmet appetizer. Plain honey works wonderfully too if you prefer less heat.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make these delicious jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons, a few essential kitchen tools will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience:
- Chef’s Knife: A high-quality chef’s knife is indispensable for precise chopping, especially when it comes to dicing the jalapeños and any other fresh ingredients. My favorite brand offers a lifetime of free sharpening, meaning you’ll truly never need another knife! This ensures clean cuts and efficiency in your prep work.
- Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: For achieving that perfect golden-brown crispness through frying, a dutch oven or a sturdy, heavy-bottomed pot is crucial. Its excellent heat retention and even heat distribution are ideal for deep frying, preventing oil temperature fluctuations that can lead to soggy or unevenly cooked wontons. Plus, it’s a versatile pot for countless other recipes like braising, soups, and stews.
- Spider Strainer: A spider strainer is an absolute must-have for safe frying. Its wide, mesh basket allows you to easily and safely retrieve the hot wontons from the oil without the risk of burns. It also helps to quickly drain excess oil, ensuring your wontons are crispy, not greasy.
- Mixing Bowls: A set of stainless steel mixing bowls in various sizes will be helpful for preparing your filling and keeping your ingredients organized during prep.
- Cutting Board: A reliable utility cutting board provides a stable and clean surface for all your chopping needs, protecting your countertops and making ingredient preparation easier.
- Oil Thermometer (Optional but recommended): To ensure your frying oil is at the optimal temperature (around 375°F), an oil thermometer is highly recommended. Consistent oil temperature is key to achieving perfectly crispy wontons without them becoming greasy or burning.
How to Make Jalapeño Avocado Cream Cheese Wontons
Making these irresistible jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these simple steps for crispy, creamy, and spicy perfection:
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy, Spicy Filling
The first step is to create the flavorful core of your wontons. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this makes it much easier to mix into a smooth, lump-free base. Add the mashed or cubed avocado, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, fresh chopped cilantro, and the finely diced (and seeded, if preferred) jalapeño. Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well-combined and you have a smooth, uniform filling. You can even taste a small bit of the filling at this stage to adjust for salt or spice if desired, ensuring it’s exactly to your liking. Once mixed, set the filling aside while you prepare your wonton wrappers.
Step 2: Assemble the Wontons
Assembly is a crucial step to ensure your wontons fry beautifully and hold their delicious filling. Work on a clean, flat surface. Take one wonton wrapper and place it in front of you so that one of its corners is pointing towards you, creating a diamond shape. Dip your finger in a small bowl of water and lightly moisten all four edges of the wrapper. This water acts as a glue, helping to seal the wonton properly. Place about 1 teaspoon of the prepared filling directly in the center of the wonton wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult and may cause the wontons to burst during frying.
Now, gently fold the wrapper in half, bringing the bottom corner up to meet the top corner, forming a triangle. Carefully press around the filling, working any air pockets out towards the edges. This is important for a tight seal and to prevent the wonton from puffing up excessively or leaking in the oil. Firmly press the edges together to create a good seal. You can even use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges for extra security and a decorative touch. Repeat this process with the remaining filling and wonton wrappers, placing the assembled wontons on a plate or baking sheet as you go. To prevent them from drying out, you can cover them with a damp paper towel.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Frying gives these jalapeño popper wontons their signature crispy exterior. Heat 1 to 2 inches of canola oil (or your preferred frying oil) in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The ideal oil temperature is around 375°F (190°C) – if you don’t have a thermometer, you can test a small piece of wonton wrapper; it should sizzle and turn golden quickly. Once the oil is hot and ready, carefully place the assembled wontons into the oil in batches of 4 to 5 at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy, less crispy wontons.
Fry each batch until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy, which typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Use a spider strainer or slotted spoon to carefully remove the fried wontons from the oil. Transfer them immediately to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial for maintaining their crispness. Continue frying in batches until all the wontons are cooked. Serve these crispy wonders hot, ideally with a generous drizzle of hot honey, if desired, for an irresistible sweet and spicy finish.
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!
Where Can I Find Wonton Wrappers?
Finding wonton wrappers is usually easier than you might think! Don’t head straight for the dry goods or Asian food aisle, as they are a refrigerated item. Most major supermarkets stock them in the refrigerated section, often near the produce, tofu, or specialty cheeses. They’re typically in a clear plastic package, usually square-shaped. If you have trouble locating them at your regular grocery store, a local Asian grocery store or international market will almost certainly have them, and often offer a wider variety of brands and sizes. Remember to keep them sealed and refrigerated until you’re ready to use them to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Make These Jalapeño Popper Wontons Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! While these jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons are truly at their peak when served fresh and hot, you can certainly prepare them in advance. This makes them an excellent choice for party planning or when you want a quick snack without the full prep. Here are a few options:
- Prepare the Filling Ahead: You can mix the creamy filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the wontons.
- Assemble and Refrigerate: Assemble the wontons as directed, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4-6 hours. This prevents the wrappers from becoming soggy or drying out.
- Freeze Uncooked Wontons: For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked wontons! After assembling, place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the wontons to a freezer-safe airtight bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. When ready to cook, fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
To reheat previously cooked wontons, I recommend placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warming them in an oven preheated to 375˚F (190°C) for about 8-12 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. This method helps restore their crispy texture better than a microwave.
Can I Bake These Jalapeño Popper Wontons Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you absolutely can! Baking offers a slightly healthier alternative to frying, resulting in a wonderfully crispy (though perhaps not quite as intensely crunchy as deep-fried) exterior. The flavor profile remains fantastic, and they’re still an incredibly delicious appetizer.
To bake your jalapeño popper wontons:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the assembled wontons in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. This allows for even cooking and crisping.
- Lightly spray the tops of the wontons with cooking spray. This helps them achieve that appealing golden-brown color and a satisfying crisp texture.
- Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the wrappers are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Enjoy these delicious, oven-baked jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons with a clear conscience!
Does the Avocado Turn Brown Inside the Wonton?
Nope, it stays beautifully green! One of the common concerns when cooking with avocado is its tendency to oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. However, in this jalapeño popper wonton recipe, the avocado is protected. Once it’s mixed into the creamy cheese filling and then sealed inside the wonton wrapper, it’s largely shielded from the air. Furthermore, the quick cooking process (whether frying, baking, or air frying) helps to preserve its vibrant green color and fresh flavor. You’ll find that the avocado maintains its lovely hue and creamy texture, adding a fantastic element to the finished appetizer.
Can I Skip the Avocado in This Recipe?
Yes, you can certainly skip the avocado if it’s not to your preference or if you don’t have any on hand! The wontons will still be delicious, offering that classic creamy and spicy jalapeño popper experience. However, it’s worth noting that the avocado adds a unique layer of richness, a silky texture, and a subtle earthy flavor that truly elevates these wontons. If you omit it, you might find the filling to be a little less creamy and the overall flavor profile slightly different.
Additionally, since the avocado contributes to the volume of the filling, you will likely end up with a handful fewer wontons than the original recipe suggests. If you want to maintain the number of wontons, you could slightly increase the amount of cream cheese or add a bit more shredded cheese to compensate for the lost volume, though this will alter the fat and calorie content. For a similar creamy effect without avocado, you could consider adding a small amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cream cheese mixture, but be mindful of adding too much moisture.
Can These Jalapeño Wontons Be Air Fried?
Absolutely! The air fryer is a fantastic method for cooking these jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons, offering a crispy texture with less oil than traditional frying. It’s a great option for a healthier appetizer or when you prefer not to deal with hot oil on the stovetop.
Here’s how to air fry your wontons for optimal results:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380˚F (195°C). Allowing it to preheat ensures even cooking from the start.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket or insert with cooking spray to prevent the wontons from sticking.
- Arrange the assembled wontons in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary. Overlapping wontons will steam instead of crisp.
- Lightly spray the tops of the wontons with cooking spray. This helps them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and that desired crispy finish.
- Air fry for approximately 10 minutes.
- Halfway through the cooking time (around the 5-minute mark), pause and flip the wontons to ensure even crisping on both sides.
- Continue cooking until they are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is hot and bubbly.
The cooking time might vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. Enjoy these perfectly crispy and flavorful air-fried jalapeño popper avocado wontons!
Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizers recipe page!
What to Serve with Jalapeño Avocado Cream Cheese Wontons
These jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons are packed with flavor on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your appetizer experience even further. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:
- Hot Honey Drizzle: My absolute favorite! A light drizzle of hot honey (or even plain honey) over the top offers a delightful sweet and savory kick, creating a wonderful flavor contrast that enhances the spicy and creamy filling.
- Salsa: For a classic combination, serve these crispy wontons with your favorite tomato-based salsa. A restaurant-style, smoother salsa generally works best, as a chunky style might be a bit too robust for the delicate wontons. The fresh acidity of salsa perfectly complements the rich filling.
- Mango Chutney: For an exotic twist, some readers have raved about serving these with mango chutney. A small dollop on top of each wonton provides a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy counterpoint that is truly unique and delicious.
- Cooling Dips: To provide a cooling contrast to the jalapeño heat, consider serving with a creamy ranch dip, a light sour cream or Greek yogurt dip, or even a homemade avocado crema (blended avocado, sour cream/yogurt, lime juice, cilantro).
- Guacamole: Double down on the avocado goodness with a side of fresh guacamole!
- Garnishes: A sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro, finely diced jalapeño slices (for those who crave more heat), or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors and add visual appeal.
If you’re hosting a game day or looking for more appetizer inspiration, explore my other mouthwatering game day snacks recipes. And if you simply can’t get enough of the jalapeño popper craze, you absolutely must try my creamy jalapeño popper dip next – it’s equally addictive! Don’t forget the cocktails! From a refreshing 2-ingredient gin and ginger ale to a sophisticated bourbon manhattan, there are plenty of drink pairings that go beautifully with this spicy and savory dish.
How to Store and Reheat Your Wontons
While these jalapeño popper avocado wontons are best enjoyed fresh, you can easily store and reheat them to enjoy later without sacrificing too much of their deliciousness:
- Storage: Allow any leftover wontons to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper cooling and sealing are key to preventing sogginess and maintaining freshness.
- Reheating: To restore their delightful crispness, avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make them soft. The best method for reheating is in the oven or an air fryer.
- Oven Reheating: Arrange the wontons in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190°C). Bake for about 8-12 minutes, or until they are thoroughly warmed through and have become crispy again.
- Air Fryer Reheating: Place the wontons in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 350˚F (175°C) for 4-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until hot and crispy.
Finally, if you make these irresistible jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment below! I genuinely love hearing from you and seeing how these recipes come to life in your homes – it truly means the world to me. Feel free to drop any questions you have, and I’ll do my best to respond to every single comment. Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you share a photo of your creations!
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Jalapeño Avocado Cream Cheese Wontons 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
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Utility Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature, full-fat recommended
- 2/3 cup cheddar cheese shredded, sharp for best flavor
- 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 avocado large, ripe, peeled and pitted, mashed or finely cubed
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1 tsp chopped cilantro fresh is best
- 3 jalapeños seeded (for milder heat) and finely diced
- 1 package wonton wrappers typically 12-14 oz, approx. 40-50 wrappers
- Canola Oil or avocado oil, for frying
- Optional: hot honey or plain honey, for drizzling
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mashed avocado, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeños until well-combined and smooth.
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On a clean work surface, lay out a wonton wrapper so a corner is pointed towards you (making it look like a diamond).
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Dip your finger in water and moisten all four edges of the wrapper. Add approximately 1 teaspoon of the creamy filling in the center of the wonton wrapper. Avoid overfilling.
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Fold the wrapper in half, bringing the bottom corner up to meet the top corner, forming a triangle. Gently press around the filling to remove any air pockets and then firmly press the edges outwards to seal completely. Ensure a tight seal to prevent filling from escaping during cooking. Repeat with the remaining filling and wonton wrappers, placing assembled wontons on a plate or baking sheet.
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Heat 1 to 2 inches of canola oil (or avocado oil) in a heavy-bottomed large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 375°F (190°C) on an oil thermometer (or a small piece of wonton wrapper sizzles immediately), carefully fry the wontons in batches of 3 to 4 at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
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Fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 1 to 2 minutes per side. Use a spider strainer or slotted spoon to remove the wontons from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
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Serve the jalapeño avocado cream cheese wontons hot, with an optional drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Video
Notes
How to Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 380˚F (195°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Place wontons in a single layer (do not overcrowd), spray tops with cooking spray, and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.