2. Assemble the Wonton Bites
Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling into the center. Be careful not to overfill—it could lead to bursting during frying.
Moisten the edges with a touch of water using your finger or a pastry brush. Fold the wrapper diagonally to form a triangle or bring in all four corners for a purse-like shape. Press around the edges to seal tightly, removing any air bubbles.
Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Fry to Crispy Perfection
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer is your best friend here—too cool and your wontons get greasy, too hot and they burn before the filling heats through.
Working in batches, fry the wontons for 1–2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Flip them halfway for even color.
Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to wick away excess oil.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the wonton bites while they’re still warm and crisp. Pair with:
- A swirl of whipped cream
- A drizzle of strawberry sauce or extra jam
- A scattering of fresh strawberry slices
They’re delicious on their own, but these additions elevate the presentation and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Wonton Bites
Creating a fried dessert can be intimidating, but these tips make it foolproof:
- Don’t overfill the wrappers. A small amount of filling goes a long way and prevents leaking during frying.
- Seal thoroughly. Wet the edges well and press firmly to avoid explosions in the oil.
- Fry in small batches. Crowding the pan reduces the oil temperature and results in soggy wontons.
- Serve immediately. These bites are best hot and fresh, when the wrapper is still crisp and the center creamy.
Creative Variations to Try
These wontons are incredibly versatile. Here are some flavor twists to explore:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate before serving.
- Lemon Cheesecake Version: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling and use lemon curd instead of strawberry jam.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a few crushed almonds or pecans into the filling for texture.
- Tropical Take: Use mango or pineapple preserves for a sunny, tropical flavor profile.
How to Store and Reheat
Got leftovers? These bites can be stored and reheated with a little care.
- Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To restore crispiness, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy.
Note: These aren’t ideal for freezing, especially before frying, as the wrappers can become fragile with thawing.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With These Wontons
Want to turn these into a full dessert experience? Try pairing with:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A chilled glass of rosé or dessert wine
- Iced coffee or cold brew for a refreshing contrast
They also work wonderfully on a dessert charcuterie board with other bite-sized treats like chocolate truffles, fruit skewers, or mini pastries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, but you won’t get the same crispy texture. Brush the assembled wontons with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Use neutral oils with a high smoke point such as canola, peanut, or vegetable oil.
Can I use other fruit flavors?
Absolutely! Try raspberry, blueberry, or even fig preserves for a unique twist.
Can I make them ahead of time?
You can assemble them a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge before frying. Fry just before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts: A Dessert Worth Frying For
These Deep-Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Wonton Bites are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a celebration of contrast and creativity. The creamy tang of cheesecake, the bright burst of strawberries, and the golden crunch of wontons all combine for a dessert that’s impossibly craveable.
Whether you’re indulging solo, sharing with family, or wowing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. So grab your cream cheese and a stack of wonton wrappers, and let the frying begin!
