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These Air Fryer Cream Cheese Wontons give you that amazing mix of crunchy outside and smooth, flavorful filling that'll keep you reaching for more. The air fryer makes them nice and golden without needing to deep fry, and the garlicky cream cheese inside just melts away when you bite in. I've tweaked the method over countless batches in my kitchen until they're even better than what you'd get dining out.
I whipped these up for my family who dropped by unexpectedly yesterday, and they were gone in seconds. My mother-in-law, who usually turns her nose up at anything made in an air fryer, wanted to know exactly how I made them. What makes them work? Getting just the right amount of oil spray for that perfect crunch.
Essential Ingredients
- Wonton wrappers: Always keep them under something while working or they'll dry out fast
- Cream cheese: Go for full-fat and make sure it's nice and soft before starting
- Garlic powder: Adds that familiar taste without being too strong
- Onion powder: Gives the filling more complexity
- Olive oil spray: You can't skip this if you want that golden crispy outside
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Mix Your Filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese till it's creamy. Throw in garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Mix everything well. Let it sit so the flavors can blend while you get the wrappers ready.
- Get Set Up:
- Handle about 6 wrappers at once. Cover the rest so they stay moist. Keep a small water dish nearby. Arrange your filling and tools so you can work smoothly.
- Fold Those Wontons:
- Wet the edges of each wrapper with water. Drop a teaspoon of filling right in the middle. Fold into a triangle and push out any air pockets. Pull the corners to the center and stick them down with water. Put finished ones under a damp paper towel.
- Air Frying Time:
- Heat your air fryer to 350°F. Give the basket a light oil spray. Put wontons in with points facing down. Spray the tops generously.
- Cook Them Up:
- Cook for 4 minutes on the first side. Flip them carefully. Spray with more oil. Cook another 4-6 minutes until they look golden.
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Keeping Everything Moist
The trickiest part with wonton wrappers is stopping them from drying out. I always put a wet paper towel over both the wrappers I haven't used yet and the wontons I've already filled. This easy trick stops them from cracking and helps them seal properly.
Getting The Heat Just Right
After trying batch after batch, I've found that 350°F works best in the air fryer. Any hotter and the outside gets too brown before the inside warms up. Any cooler and you won't get that nice crunch we're after.
Prep Them Early
You can put these together up to 4 hours before cooking - just cover them with plastic wrap and a wet paper towel in the fridge. Don't add the oil spray until you're ready to cook them.
What To Serve With Them
These wontons taste great by themselves but they're even better with something to dip them in. I like to put out sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy mayo for everyone to try.
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These air fryer cream cheese wontons have become what I make whenever I need something quick that'll wow everyone. They show you don't need takeout to get amazing flavor. Whether it's for a big party or just a family TV night, these crunchy, creamy bites always get rave reviews. There's something about that perfectly seasoned filling inside that crispy wrapper that has people coming back for seconds and thirds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do my wontons burst?
- Make sure the edges are stuck together tightly, pressing out all the air before sealing.
- → Can I prepare wontons earlier?
- They taste best fresh but you can assemble them beforehand and keep them in the fridge covered.
- → What sauces are good with these?
- Sweet chili, soy, or tangy sweet and sour sauces are great options.
- → Can I change the filling?
- Absolutely, try adding chopped crab, scallions, or crunchy water chestnuts for variety.
- → Why use oil spray?
- It helps make the wrappers golden and crispy, just like frying.