These crispy, golden wontons are filled with a sweet and creamy blueberry and cream cheese filling. They are perfect for a sweet treat or as an appetizer. Easy to prepare and bake or fry, they offer a delightful contrast of textures with their crunchy exterior and creamy interior.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 package of wonton wrappers
• Vegetable oil (for frying, if preferred)
• Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the blueberries, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine, keeping some of the blueberries intact for texture.
3. Place about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each wonton wrapper.
4. Wet the edges of the wonton wrappers with a small amount of water, then fold them into a triangle or pouch shape and press the edges to seal.
5. If frying, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the wontons for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness, if desired.

Nutrients

• Calories: 160 kcal per serving (2 wontons)
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 2g

History of Cream Cheese Wontons

Cream cheese-filled wontons are a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, particularly known in Chinese restaurants across the United States. While wontons themselves originate from China, they have undergone numerous adaptations in different cultures. The idea of filling the delicate wonton wrappers with a sweet or savory filling is thought to have emerged in the 20th century. In this particular recipe, the inclusion of cream cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with various fillings, including the addition of fresh fruit like blueberries.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons are a relatively modern innovation, showcasing the creativity and versatility of combining different ingredients from diverse culinary traditions. The balance of a crispy outer shell with a smooth and rich filling is what makes these wontons stand out from other fried or baked desserts. Blueberries, with their natural sweetness and high antioxidant content, make a perfect filling when combined with cream cheese, offering both nutritional benefits and an irresistible flavor.

Why Blueberries Make a Perfect Filling

Blueberries are known for their distinct flavor that combines sweet and slightly tart notes. These little berries pack a punch with their health benefits, such as being high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which have been linked to reducing inflammation and promoting overall health. Their natural sweetness complements the creamy texture of cream cheese and brings a refreshing burst of flavor to the wontons.

Blueberries are also versatile in the kitchen and can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. When incorporated into desserts like these wontons, blueberries contribute to the overall flavor balance while adding a pop of color to the dish. Their soft, juicy texture helps to create a filling that contrasts beautifully with the crispiness of the fried or baked wonton wrapper. Not only do blueberries taste amazing, but they also elevate the aesthetic appeal of the dish, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

The Appeal of Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is one of the most beloved ingredients in dessert recipes for good reason. Its smooth texture and subtle tang make it a perfect base for fillings in sweet dishes. When used in recipes like Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons, cream cheese contributes a rich, velvety filling that balances out the sweetness of the fruit while adding an indulgent quality to the dish. Its neutral flavor allows other ingredients, such as the blueberries, to shine, while still providing a deliciously creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Cream cheese is also incredibly versatile in both savory and sweet applications. In savory dishes, it’s often used in spreads or dips, while in sweet recipes, it can serve as the base for frostings, cheesecakes, or fillings. This versatility allows it to adapt to different flavor profiles, making it an essential ingredient in many kitchens. The tangy and creamy qualities of cream cheese are especially effective in balancing the sweetness of the fruit fillings in these wontons, ensuring that each bite is harmonious.

Baking vs. Frying: Which is Better?

One of the decisions you’ll have to make when preparing Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons is whether to bake or fry them. Both methods yield delicious results, but each has its own benefits and considerations.

Frying: When you fry the wontons, the outer shell becomes crispy and golden brown, creating a satisfying crunch with each bite. Frying also gives the wontons a richer, deeper flavor due to the oil, and the hot oil helps create that perfect crispy texture. If you’re looking for an indulgent treat with a slightly more decadent feel, frying is the way to go. However, frying requires more attention and care, especially in ensuring the oil is at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the wontons may burn; if it’s not hot enough, they may become greasy.

Baking: Baking the wontons is a healthier option and results in a slightly lighter version of the dish. While the wontons will still be crispy, the texture won’t be as deeply fried, and the overall flavor will be a bit more subtle. Baking is a hands-off method that doesn’t require you to monitor the temperature of oil, making it easier for beginners or anyone who wants a simpler approach. Additionally, baking is a great option for those looking to reduce the amount of oil in their diet while still enjoying the same delicious filling.

Making the Wontons Your Own

One of the best things about Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons is how customizable the filling can be. While blueberries and cream cheese are the stars of the show in this recipe, you can easily swap in other fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries, depending on what you have available or your personal preference. If you’re a fan of citrus, adding a bit of orange or lemon zest to the cream cheese filling can provide a refreshing twist. You could even mix in a few white chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.

For those who prefer a savory version, you can experiment by substituting the fruit with savory fillings like spinach, cheese, or crab. The basic technique of folding and sealing the wontons remains the same, but the flavor combinations are endless. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer at a dinner party or preparing them as a quick snack, there are countless ways to make these wontons uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons are a perfect dessert for any occasion, but they also make a great addition to a brunch spread or as an appetizer. They can be served as a standalone treat or paired with sauces like chocolate, raspberry coulis, or even a drizzle of honey. If you’re serving them at a party or gathering, consider offering a variety of dips to complement the wontons’ rich and creamy filling. The sweet blueberry flavor works well with tangy or slightly spicy dipping sauces, giving guests the option to experiment with different flavor combinations.

To elevate the presentation, serve the wontons on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh blueberries scattered on top. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the wontons for an indulgent dessert. Their visually appealing appearance, with the golden brown wonton wrappers and vibrant blueberry filling, will surely impress your guests.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons are a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of blueberries. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these wontons are easy to make and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Their versatility in flavor and filling options also allows you to experiment and make them your own, making them a staple recipe for any home cook. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a dessert, or even as an appetizer, Blueberry Cream Cheese Wontons bring a unique twist to traditional desserts and are bound to become a crowd favorite.