Strawberry Wonton Cups: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe

Strawberry Wonton Cups: Prepare to be amazed by this delightful dessert that’s as easy to make as it is stunning to look at! Imagine biting into a crispy, golden wonton shell filled with a luscious, creamy filling and topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will have everyone begging for more.

While the exact origins of combining wonton wrappers with sweet fillings are somewhat modern, the inspiration draws from the rich history of both wonton wrappers, a staple in Asian cuisine, and the universal love for fruit-based desserts. Think of it as a fusion dish that marries the best of both worlds! These aren’t your grandmother’s wontons, but they are sure to become a family favorite.

What makes these Strawberry Wonton Cups so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the satisfying crunch of the baked wonton contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy filling and the burst of freshness from the strawberries. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to make, requiring minimal baking time and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick dessert for a weeknight treat, or simply want to impress your friends, these little cups of joy are guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready to experience dessert perfection!

Ingredients:

• 1 package (about 50) wonton wrappers
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Preparing the Wonton Cups:

Okay, let’s start with the foundation of our delightful dessert – the crispy wonton cups! This part is surprisingly easy, and the result is a perfectly crunchy and slightly sweet base for our strawberry filling.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking and ensuring the wonton wrappers get nice and golden brown.
2. Prepare your muffin tin. Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin. You can use cooking spray or a little bit of melted butter. This will prevent the wonton wrappers from sticking and make them easy to remove once baked.
3. Melt the butter. In a small bowl, melt the 1/4 cup of butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or on the stovetop over low heat. Be careful not to burn the butter.
4. Combine butter and sugar. In another small bowl, mix the melted butter and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This mixture will give the wonton wrappers a lovely sweetness and help them crisp up beautifully.
5. Brush the wonton wrappers. Lay out a few wonton wrappers at a time. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each wrapper with the butter-sugar mixture. Make sure to coat both sides for even browning and flavor.
6. Shape the wonton cups. Gently press each buttered wonton wrapper into a cup of the prepared mini muffin tin. You can arrange the corners to create a star-like shape or simply let them fold naturally. Don’t worry about perfection; a little variation adds to the charm!
7. Bake the wonton cups. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
8. Cool the wonton cups. Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the wonton cups cool completely in the tin. This will allow them to firm up and prevent them from breaking when you remove them. Once cooled, gently remove the wonton cups from the muffin tin. You can use a small offset spatula or knife to help loosen them if needed.

Preparing the Strawberry Filling:

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show – the luscious strawberry filling! This is where the fresh, vibrant flavors really come to life. We’ll macerate the strawberries to bring out their natural sweetness and create a juicy, flavorful filling.

1. Prepare the strawberries. Hull and slice the fresh strawberries. I like to slice them about 1/4 inch thick, but you can adjust the thickness to your preference.
2. Macerate the strawberries. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Gently toss to coat the strawberries evenly.
3. Let the strawberries sit. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the strawberries sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This process, called maceration, allows the sugar to draw out the natural juices from the strawberries, creating a delicious syrup and intensifying their flavor. Stir occasionally.
4. Drain excess liquid (optional). If the strawberries have released a lot of liquid, you can drain some of it off before filling the wonton cups. This will prevent the cups from becoming soggy. However, I usually leave most of the liquid in, as it adds to the overall flavor and moisture.

Making the Whipped Cream:

No strawberry dessert is complete without a cloud of light and airy whipped cream! This is a simple yet essential component that adds a touch of elegance and complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the crispness of the wonton cups.

1. Chill the bowl and beaters. Place the mixing bowl and beaters (or whisk attachment) in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before you start. This will help the heavy cream whip up more quickly and easily.
2. Combine ingredients. In the chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Whip the cream. Using an electric mixer (or a whisk, if you’re feeling ambitious!), whip the cream on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can turn the cream into butter. You’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape and forms peaks when you lift the beaters.

Assembling the Strawberry Wonton Cups:

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – assembling our beautiful and delicious Strawberry Wonton Cups! This is where all the individual components come together to create a truly unforgettable dessert.

1. Fill the wonton cups. Spoon the macerated strawberry mixture into each of the cooled wonton cups. Be generous with the filling, but don’t overfill them, or they might become difficult to handle.
2. Top with whipped cream. Dollop a generous amount of whipped cream on top of the strawberries in each cup. You can use a spoon or a piping bag to create a more decorative swirl.
3. Garnish (optional). If desired, garnish the Strawberry Wonton Cups with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing aroma. You can also sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance.
4. Serve immediately. These Strawberry Wonton Cups are best served immediately, as the wonton cups can become soggy over time. If you need to prepare them in advance, you can assemble the components separately and assemble the cups just before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize your Strawberry Wonton Cups and make them even more special:

• Other fruits: Feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. You can use a combination of fruits for a mixed berry filling.
• Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream for a decadent touch.
• Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the whipped cream for a bright and citrusy flavor.
• Different extracts: Try using almond extract or orange extract instead of vanilla extract in the whipped cream.
• Make it vegan: Use vegan wonton wrappers, coconut whipped cream, and a vegan butter substitute for a completely vegan version.
• Add a crumble topping: Sprinkle a buttery crumble topping over the strawberries before adding the whipped cream for added texture and flavor.
• Store leftover components separately: If you have leftover wonton cups, strawberry filling, or whipped cream, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The wonton cups will stay crispy for a few days, while the strawberry filling and whipped cream should be used within a day or two.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delightful Strawberry Wonton Cups! They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a simple yet elegant dessert. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your own unique version. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Strawberry Wonton Cups are truly a must-try recipe, and I’m not just saying that. The combination of the crispy, golden-brown wonton shell with the sweet and juicy strawberry filling is simply divine. It’s a delightful explosion of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for a quick dessert or a fun baking project with the kids. Seriously, what’s not to love?

But the best part? The versatility! While I’ve presented my favorite version with fresh strawberries and a light glaze, the possibilities are endless. For a richer flavor, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. A sprinkle of chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, would also add a lovely crunch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a brunch gathering: Arrange the Strawberry Wonton Cups on a platter for an elegant and effortless dessert.
* For a kid-friendly treat: Let the little ones help assemble the cups and decorate them with sprinkles or chocolate shavings.
* For a romantic dessert: Drizzle the cups with melted dark chocolate and serve with a glass of sparkling wine.
* Berry Variations: Experiment with different berries! Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mixed berry medley would work beautifully. You could even use a combination of berries and a touch of lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
* Cream Cheese Filling: For a richer, more decadent filling, try mixing softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract. This adds a tangy sweetness that complements the strawberries perfectly.
* Chocolate Wonton Cups: Brush the wonton wrappers with melted chocolate before baking for a chocolatey twist.
* Savory Option: Believe it or not, you can even adapt this recipe for a savory appetizer! Fill the baked wonton cups with a mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and smoked salmon or crabmeat.

I truly believe that these Strawberry Wonton Cups will become a new favorite in your household. They’re the perfect balance of sweet, crispy, and satisfying, and they’re so easy to customize to your liking.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love it as much as I do. And please, don’t be shy! I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you come up with your own creative twist? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Let me know what you think, and happy baking! I can’t wait to see your creations!

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