Deep-Fried Strawberry Wontons

This decadent strawberry cheesecake stuffed wonton dessert transforms simple ingredients into an impressive treat that balances creamy, sweet filling with a satisfying crispy shell. The contrast between the warm, crunchy exterior and the cool, creamy strawberry cheesecake center creates an irresistible bite that disappears quickly at gatherings.

I first made these for a last-minute dinner party when I needed something fancy-looking but quick. My guests were so impressed they thought I had spent hours in the kitchen, when really these came together in about 20 minutes of active prep time.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Forms the luscious base of our filling. Use full-fat for the richest results and ensure it's fully softened to avoid lumps
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens without the grittiness of granulated sugar. The fine texture blends perfectly into the cream cheese
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the filling. A pure extract rather than imitation makes a noticeable difference
• Strawberry jam: Creates pockets of fruity sweetness. Look for a quality preserve with visible fruit pieces rather than just sweetened gel
• Wonton wrappers: The magic shortcut. Find them in the refrigerated section near tofu or produce. Choose ones that feel pliable not dry
• Vegetable oil: With a high smoke point ensures proper frying temperature. Canola or peanut oil works excellently here

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the filling:

Beat cream cheese until completely smooth, at least 2 minutes with an electric mixer or 5 minutes by hand. Any lumps now will remain in your final product. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy with a slight whipped texture.

Prepare your assembly station:

Lay out several wonton wrappers on a clean, dry surface. Keep the remaining wrappers covered with a slightly damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Position a small bowl of water nearby for sealing. Having everything accessible makes the assembly process quick and prevents wrappers from drying out.

Fill and seal:

Place approximately one teaspoon of cream cheese mixture slightly off-center on each wrapper. Add a quarter teaspoon of strawberry jam on top. Avoid overfilling which can cause ruptures during frying. Wet your finger in the water bowl and trace along all four edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper diagonally to create a triangle, pressing firmly from the filling outward to remove air pockets. Seal completely by pressing the edges with the tines of a fork.

Master the frying technique:

Heat oil to exactly 350°F using a thermometer for accuracy. The precise temperature ensures the wontons cook quickly enough to crisp without burning or becoming oil-soaked. Work in small batches of 3 to 4 wontons at a time to maintain oil temperature. Fry each side for exactly 60 to 90 seconds until golden brown, using a spider strainer or slotted spoon to flip them gently.

Drain and finish:

Transfer fried wontons to a paper towel-lined plate in a single layer. Avoid stacking while hot as this can create steam that softens the crisp exterior. Let cool just 2 to 3 minutes before serving for the perfect temperature contrast between the hot, crisp shell and the warm, creamy filling.

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The first time I served these at a family gathering, my grandmother who rarely eats dessert had four in succession and then asked for the recipe. The combination of the crispy exterior with the creamy, slightly tangy filling reminds me of the cheese pastries she used to make, but with a fraction of the effort.

Make-Ahead Options

These delightful bites can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored uncooked in the refrigerator. Simply place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The key is ensuring they don't touch each other to prevent sticking. When ready to serve, fry them directly from the refrigerator with no need to bring to room temperature. This make-ahead capability makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.

Creative Flavor Variations

The basic recipe framework invites endless experimentation with different filling options. Replace the strawberry jam with raspberry preserves for a more intense berry flavor, or try apricot preserves for a tangy alternative. For chocolate lovers, add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture or substitute Nutella for the jam component. During fall, a spoonful of apple butter with a sprinkle of cinnamon creates a seasonal apple pie variation. The cream cheese base works beautifully with nearly any sweet addition.

Serving Suggestions

Create a dessert bar by arranging the fried wontons on a platter surrounded by various dipping options. Chocolate sauce, caramel, additional fruit preserves, and freshly whipped cream allow guests to customize their experience. For a more elegant presentation, dust the wontons with powdered sugar and arrange three per plate over a swoosh of strawberry coulis, garnished with mint leaves and fresh berries. When serving at a cocktail party, pair with dessert wines like Moscato or late-harvest Riesling to complement the sweet-tart flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your wontons are bursting during frying, you may be overfilling them or not sealing them properly. Ensure you use no more than a teaspoon of filling and press out all air pockets when sealing. When the wonton skins become too dry to work with, they crack easily. Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp cloth while working. If your wontons are browning too quickly but remain raw inside, your oil is too hot. Maintain a consistent 350°F temperature using a thermometer for perfect results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep the wontons from bursting during frying?

Ensure the edges are sealed tightly by moistening with water and pressing firmly. Also, avoid overfilling the wrappers to prevent leaks.

→ Can I bake the wontons instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden, flipping halfway through for even browning.

→ What’s the best oil for frying wontons?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works best due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.

→ Can I prepare these wontons ahead of time?

You can assemble the wontons a few hours in advance and refrigerate them. Fry just before serving for optimal crispiness.

→ What other fillings can I use for variation?

You can experiment with other fruit jams, Nutella, or even a cinnamon and sugar cream cheese filling for variety.

→ How do I store leftover wontons?

Store leftover wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.