Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon

If you’re in search of a crispy, creamy, and utterly delightful appetizer, look no further than Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon. These little pockets of joy are filled with a luscious blend of cream cheese, garlic, and green onions, all tucked into golden-brown wonton wrappers. Unlike their fried counterparts, these baked versions are lighter, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. They are easy to whip up and disappear just as quickly, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!

Why It’s My Go-To

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that elicits gasps of delight from friends and family. Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon is my go-to because they strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cream cheese filling is rich and savory, while the wonton wrappers provide that satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a party food staple. Every bite is a little burst of flavor, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste!

Shopping List

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 clove garlic, minced
• Dash of salt
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 egg (for sealing the wontons)
• 24 square wonton wrappers

Equipment at a Glance

• Mixing bowl – for combining the filling ingredients.
• Baking sheet – to hold the rangoon as they bake.
• Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Pastry brush – to apply egg wash for a golden finish.
• Oven – the star of the show for that perfect bake.

The Method for Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your rangoon will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, a dash of salt, and chopped green onions. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 3: Assemble the Wontons

Take a wonton wrapper and place about a teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.

Step 4: Seal the Wontons

Dip your finger into the egg and lightly brush the edges of the wonton wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half diagonally to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can also bring the corners of the triangle together to form a cute little pouch if you prefer.

Step 5: Arrange and Brush

Place the sealed wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced apart so they can crisp up nicely. Brush the tops lightly with egg wash for that beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and turn the tray halfway through for even baking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the rangoon from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce. Watch them disappear!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Add cooked shrimp or crab meat to the filling for a seafood twist.
• Incorporate some shredded cheese for an extra cheesy treat.
• Mix in chopped herbs like cilantro or dill to brighten the flavor.
• Serve with a spicy dipping sauce to kick things up a notch.

Problems & Prevention

Creating the perfect Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon is mostly straightforward, but here are a few potential hiccups and how to avoid them:

• Sealing Issues: Make sure to brush the edges with egg wash. This helps create a strong seal that prevents filling from leaking during baking.
• Soggy Wrappers: Avoid overfilling the wontons. Less is more to keep them crispy!
• Burnt Edges: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for even cooking.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prep or parties:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover rangoon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the unbaked wontons. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheat: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Quick Questions

Can I use cream cheese that isn’t softened?

For the best results, it’s essential to use softened cream cheese. This makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients and ensures a smooth filling.

What if I don’t have wonton wrappers?

If wonton wrappers aren’t available, you can use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares or even make your own dough from scratch!

How can I spice up the filling?

Feel free to add spices or sauces to the filling, such as sriracha for heat or soy sauce for extra umami. The possibilities are endless!

Are there any good dipping sauces for rangoon?

Absolutely! Sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or even a spicy chili sauce pair wonderfully. You can also try a creamy dipping sauce made with Greek yogurt and herbs.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Vegetable Spring Rolls
• Cheesy Baked Brie
• Spicy Chicken Wings
• Mini Meatballs

Final Bite

Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon is not just an appetizer; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. With their crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful filling, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this dish is bound to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into the delightful world of homemade Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon. You won’t regret it!