Crispy Asian Cream Cheese Appetizers (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Filling

01 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 2 green onions, finely chopped
03 - 1 clove garlic, minced
04 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
05 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil

→ For Assembly and Cooking

06 - 1 pack of wonton wrappers (about 50 wrappers)
07 - Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
08 - Water (for sealing the wrappers)

→ For Serving

09 - Sweet chili sauce (for dipping)

# Instructions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly until smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
02 - Create a workspace with your wonton wrappers, the cream cheese filling, a small bowl of water for sealing, and a clean plate or baking sheet to place your assembled wontons.
03 - Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Add about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture to the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the wontons to burst during frying.
04 - Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wonton wrapper to moisten. Fold the wrapper over diagonally to form a triangle, pressing firmly around the filling to seal the edges and remove any air pockets.
05 - For a more decorative look, pinch the middle of the long edge of your sealed triangle, then fold the two corners toward the center, pressing to seal. This creates a small pouch shape that's both pretty and functional.
06 - In a deep frying pan or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small piece of wonton wrapper - it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly but not burn.
07 - Carefully lower a few wontons into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're golden brown and crispy on all sides.
08 - Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, remove the wontons from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Continue frying the remaining wontons in batches.
09 - Arrange the crispy wontons on a serving plate while still warm. Serve with a small bowl of sweet chili sauce for dipping. Best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy!

# Notes:

01 - These cream cheese wontons are a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a crispy exterior and creamy, savory filling. They're perfect for parties, game days, or as a starter for an Asian-inspired meal.
02 - You can customize these wontons by adding crab meat, cooked and crumbled bacon, or finely diced water chestnuts to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.
03 - If you prefer a healthier option, these can be baked instead of fried. Brush with a little oil and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and crisp.