These Crab Rangoon Wonton Cups are a fun twist on a classic appetizer! Crispy wonton shells are filled with a creamy mixture of crab meat, cream cheese, and just the right spices.
They are perfect for parties or a tasty snack while binge-watching your favorite show. I like to serve them with sweet chili sauce for an extra kick—so good, you won’t want to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton wrappers: These are essential for creating crispy cups. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, spring roll wrappers work too. Just keep in mind, the texture will be slightly different.
Cream cheese: Regular cream cheese gives a rich flavor. You can try using Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option, or even a dairy-free cream cheese substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Imitation crab meat: While imitation crab is commonly used, fresh lump crab meat can elevate these cups. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, opt for finely chopped mushrooms or tofu seasoned with a bit of soy sauce.
Green onions: They add a fresh crunch and subtle flavor. Leeks can be an alternative, or you can skip them if they’re not available.
How Do I Ensure My Wonton Cups Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting the right texture for your wonton cups is key! Here are some steps to help you achieve that crispy goodness:
- Preheat the oven fully before baking the cups to ensure they cook evenly.
- Make sure to grease the muffin cups well. You can spray them with cooking spray or brush them with oil to help with browning.
- Don’t overfill the cups; 1 tablespoon of filling is just right to allow the wrappers to bake properly.
- Watch them closely in the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly!
Crab Rangoon Wonton Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup imitation crab meat, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- Cooking spray or vegetable oil for greasing
- Sweet chili sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes for baking, totaling around 25-30 minutes before they’re ready for you to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 24-cup mini muffin pan and lightly grease each cup with cooking spray or a brush of vegetable oil.
2. Prepare the Wonton Wrappers:
Next, take a wonton wrapper and gently press it into each muffin cup, shaping it to fit well. This will create your little cups that will hold all that delicious filling.
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped imitation crab meat, finely sliced green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Fill the Wonton Cups:
Now it’s filling time! Spoon about 1 tablespoon of your creamy crab mixture into each wonton cup. Make sure to spread it out evenly for consistent baking.
5. Bake:
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the cups cool in the pan for a couple of minutes. Gently lift them out and place them on a serving plate.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top your wonton cups with some extra sliced green onions for a fresh look. Serve them warm with sweet chili sauce on the side, and enjoy your crispy, creamy, and flavorful Crab Rangoon Wonton Cups!
Can I Use Fresh Crab Instead of Imitation Crab?
Absolutely! Fresh lump crab meat will give the cups a richer flavor. Just ensure to gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture so you don’t break it up too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Crab Rangoon Wonton Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Wonton Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and fill the wonton cups a few hours in advance. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. They make for an easy and quick party appetizer!
What Can I Use Instead of Wonton Wrappers?
If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use spring roll wrappers or even phyllo dough cut to size. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and phyllo will be flakier.