Save A festive and flavorful appetizer featuring tangy cranberry jalapeño dip nestled in crisp wonton cups. Perfect for parties and holiday gatherings.
I first made these for a holiday party, and they quickly disappeared. The combination of tart cranberries and spicy jalapeño packed into a crunchy wonton shell left everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Wonton wrappers: 24 wrappers, for the cup base
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons, for brushing
- Fresh cranberries: 1 cup, chopped
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and finely diced
- Green onions: 1/4 cup, finely sliced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/8 teaspoon
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Form the wonton cups:
- Place one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, pressing gently to form a cup shape. Brush lightly with vegetable oil.
- Bake the cups:
- Bake wonton wrappers for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool.
- Make the dip:
- In a medium bowl, combine cranberries, jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix and refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Fill the cups:
- Spread about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese into the bottom of each cooled wonton cup.
- Top and serve:
- Spoon a generous teaspoon of cranberry jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese in each cup. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready.
Save This recipe is a family favorite at Thanksgiving. A platter of wonton cups disappears fast, and the colorful dip always brings a smile to the kids.
Required Tools
Mini muffin tin, pastry brush, mixing bowls, knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 70 calories, 3 g fat, 9 g carbs, 2 g protein
Notes
For milder dip, use less jalapeño or omit seeds. Try goat cheese for extra tang. Garnish with cilantro or lime zest for color.
Save Serve chilled or at room temperature for best texture. These cups add festive flair to any gathering.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make the wonton cups ahead?
Yes, bake wonton cups earlier and keep in an airtight container. Fill before serving for best texture.
- → Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
Try goat cheese for a tangier profile or use a dairy-free spread for allergy-friendly options.
- → How spicy are these cups?
These cups have a mild heat from jalapeño; remove seeds for less spice or add extra for more kick.
- → Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, thaw and chop frozen cranberries; drain excess liquid for best results.
- → What garnish goes well with these cups?
Extra cilantro, lime zest, or green onions add color and fresh flavor to finished wonton cups.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they are vegetarian as made, but check labels for any potential allergens in wonton wrappers.