Introduction
Imagine biting into a golden, crispy exterior only to discover a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy cheesecake filling, perfectly paired with juicy strawberries. Deep-Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Wonton Bites deliver exactly this experience—a delightful fusion dessert combining the crispy goodness of fried wontons with the decadent, creamy flavor of classic cheesecake and fresh strawberries. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a luxurious treat at home, these bite-sized delights are guaranteed to impress. Easy enough for beginners yet elegant enough for gourmet dessert tables, they combine contrasting textures and flavors in every delicious bite.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 24-30 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Chocolate sauce or strawberry syrup (optional, for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the diced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat, then set aside for about 10 minutes to macerate.
Step 2: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is fluffy and well-blended.
Step 3: Carefully fold the macerated strawberries into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing to maintain strawberry chunks intact.
Step 4: Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean, flat surface. Place approximately 1 tablespoon of the strawberry-cheesecake filling into the center of each wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wonton diagonally into a triangle, pressing firmly to seal and ensure no filling escapes during frying.
Step 5: In a deep frying pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop 3-4 wonton bites into the hot oil at a time, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining wonton bites.
Variation:
- Fruit Variations: Substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or mangoes for different fruity cheesecake experiences.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the fried wontons.
- Nutty Twist: Include crushed almonds or pecans in the filling for additional texture and flavor.
- Air Fryer Option: For a lighter alternative, air fry the wonton bites at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or until crispy, lightly spraying with cooking spray beforehand.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Sprinkle fried wonton bites with cinnamon sugar immediately after frying for an extra flavor dimension.
COOKING Note:
- Keep a close eye on the oil temperature. If it gets too hot, the wontons will burn quickly, whereas oil that’s not hot enough will result in greasy bites. Using a thermometer to maintain proper temperature ensures perfectly crispy and golden results every time.
- When sealing the wontons, ensure that they are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking into the oil. Any leakage may cause splattering during frying.
- Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding and maintain consistent oil temperature, which yields evenly cooked, crispier results.
Serving Suggestions:
Deep-Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Wonton Bites taste heavenly served warm, dusted generously with powdered sugar. Enhance their flavor profile by offering them alongside dipping sauces such as rich chocolate ganache, creamy vanilla sauce, or fresh strawberry syrup. Present them elegantly on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves and extra slices of strawberries for a sophisticated look perfect for parties or gatherings. For a complete indulgence, pair these bites with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream.
Tips:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for optimal flavor and juiciness.
- Prevent Leaks: Avoid overfilling wontons; 1 tablespoon of filling typically ensures easy sealing and minimal leakage.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare and freeze the uncooked wonton bites in advance. Freeze them individually on a tray before transferring to an airtight bag, then fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
- Drain Properly: Always drain fried wontons on paper towels to remove excess oil, preserving their crispiness.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 120 calories per wonton bite
- Protein: 2 grams per serving
- Sodium: 70 mg per serving
FAQs
Can I bake these wonton bites instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Brushing them lightly with butter or oil before baking will help them crisp up.
What type of oil works best for frying wontons?
Neutral-tasting oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, are ideal for frying wontons as they don’t impart additional flavors and handle high temperatures well.
How should I store leftover wonton bites?
Store cooled wonton bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until crisp again.
Can frozen strawberries be used instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw, drain excess water, and gently pat them dry to prevent a watery filling.
How can I ensure wontons stay crispy after frying?
Place fried wontons on a wire rack over a baking sheet rather than directly on paper towels to enhance air circulation and maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Deep-Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Wonton Bites perfectly blend textures and flavors, creating an irresistible dessert. These bite-sized treats are versatile, simple to prepare, and sure to dazzle any crowd. With endless customization possibilities, these crispy, creamy, and fruity bites are set to become a cherished favorite at your table. Whether it’s an elegant dinner party, casual get-together, or indulgent evening snack, their deliciousness and simplicity make them a delightful go-to dessert. Enjoy every crispy, creamy, and sweet bite!