Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
Imagine transforming the beloved, creamy comfort of classic spinach and artichoke dip into a perfectly portioned, handheld delight. That is precisely what you get with these incredible Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups. This recipe takes a familiar favorite and reimagines it into a bite-sized masterpiece that is ideal for any gathering. Furthermore, the contrast between the crispy, golden wonton shell and the warm, savory filling is nothing short of magical. Consequently, these little cups are guaranteed to disappear from the platter the moment you serve them.
Creating these Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups is surprisingly straightforward, making them a fantastic project for both novice and experienced cooks. You will start by pressing wonton wrappers into a muffin tin, creating edible vessels ready to be filled. Next, you will mix a rich, cheesy filling featuring tender spinach and tangy artichoke hearts. After a brief bake, you will have a stunning appetizer that looks as impressive as it tastes. Ultimately, this recipe proves that elegant party food does not have to be complicated or time-consuming.
The versatility of these wonton cups is another reason they are a must-try recipe. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swap in different cheeses for a new flavor profile. They are perfect for game day, holiday parties, potlucks, or even a fancy snack. In short, this recipe for Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups is a reliable, crowd-pleasing staple that you will return to again and again.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: These Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups deliver a savory, cheesy experience with the distinct, tangy notes of artichoke hearts. The creamy base is perfectly seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, creating a rich and satisfying taste. Additionally, the flavors are well-balanced, ensuring no single ingredient overpowers the others.
- Texture: The texture is a fantastic play of contrasts. You get a shatteringly crisp wonton cup that gives way to a warm, soft, and luxuriously creamy interior. The chopped artichokes provide a slight, pleasant chew, while the spinach blends seamlessly into the cheesy filling for a smooth mouthfeel.
- Aroma: As these bake, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and melting cheese. The scent is warm and inviting, with the earthy notes of spinach and a hint of savory goodness that promises a delicious treat.
- Visual Appeal: These cups are visually stunning with their golden-brown, crispy shells peeking out of a muffin tin. The filling is a creamy, light green color speckled with the darker green spinach and lighter artichoke pieces, often with a beautifully bubbly, lightly browned cheese top.
- Skill Level Needed: This recipe is perfect for beginners. It involves simple mixing and assembling, with no advanced techniques required. The most challenging part is pressing the wonton wrappers into the tin, which is an easy and forgiving process.
- Special Equipment: You will need a standard 12-cup muffin tin to shape the wonton cups. Other than that, basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, a spoon for filling, and an oven are all that is required to create this impressive appetizer.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: We have classified this recipe as easy because it uses pre-made wonton wrappers, eliminating the need for making dough from scratch. The steps are sequential and simple: mix the filling, form the cups, fill, and bake. There is no complex knife work or cooking techniques involved, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Category: This dish falls squarely into the appetizer and snack category. It is designed for sharing and is perfect for starting a meal or serving at a party. Moreover, it can also be a fun and interactive finger food for a casual family dinner or a themed gathering.
- Cuisine: While wonton wrappers are a staple in Asian cuisines, the filling is firmly rooted in American party food tradition, specifically the classic spinach and artichoke dip. This recipe is a beautiful fusion, taking a format from one culinary tradition and filling it with the flavors of another to create something new and exciting.
- Cost: This is a very cost-effective recipe. Wonton wrappers, frozen spinach, and canned artichoke hearts are all budget-friendly ingredients. The cheeses are the primary cost, but since you are making a large quantity of appetizers from a small amount of each component, the cost per serving remains quite low.
- Season: These Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups are truly a year-round recipe. They are cozy and warm for fall and winter holidays, yet fresh and light enough for spring bridal showers and summer barbecues. Their versatility makes them a perennial favorite regardless of the season.
- Occasion: These are the ultimate party appetizer. They shine at game day watch parties, holiday cocktail hours, potlucks, and birthday celebrations. Furthermore, they are also great for a book club meeting or as a special after-school snack for kids.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First and foremost, the taste and texture of these Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups are utterly irresistible. The combination of creamy, savory filling and a crispy, edible container is a textural dream. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of rich cheese, earthy spinach, and tangy artichoke, all encased in a delicate, crunchy shell. This harmonious blend of flavors and textures is what makes this appetizer so addictive and memorable for your guests.
From a practical standpoint, the convenience of this recipe is a major win. You can go from a handful of simple ingredients to a finished, impressive platter in about thirty minutes. The assembly is straightforward and does not require any special culinary skills. Additionally, you can prepare the components ahead of time, making final assembly a breeze when you are ready to entertain. This ease of preparation reduces stress and allows you to enjoy your own party.
Nutritionally, these wonton cups offer some advantages over traditional dip served with chips. By using wonton wrappers, you create a lighter, crispier vessel compared to heavy bread bowls or fried tortilla chips. Spinach and artichokes are both nutrient-dense vegetables, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. While it is a indulgent treat, you are incorporating vegetables into a fun format that everyone will enjoy.
The social and entertaining value of this dish cannot be overstated. Finger foods that are easy to eat while mingling are the cornerstone of a good party menu. These Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups are perfectly portioned, mess-free, and visually appealing. They encourage conversation and are always a focal point on the appetizer table. Their guaranteed popularity makes you look like a hosting superstar.
Finally, the cost-effectiveness and accessibility of the ingredients make this a go-to recipe. You do not need to hunt for exotic or expensive items. The core components are readily available at any standard grocery store. This accessibility, combined with the high yield of a single batch, means you can feed a crowd without straining your budget. It is an elegant, crowd-pleasing appetizer that is both affordable and easy to make.
Historical Background and Cultural Significance
The origin of the classic spinach and artichoke dip is somewhat murky, but it firmly established itself as a staple of American cuisine in the latter half of the 20th century. Many food historians point to its popularization by chain restaurants in the 1980s and 1990s, where it was often served as a warm, cheesy starter with tortilla chips or bread. The combination was a hit, capitalizing on the growing availability of frozen spinach and canned artichoke hearts. This dish embodied a shift towards convenient, comfort-food appetizers designed for sharing.
The cultural significance of spinach and artichoke dip lies in its role as a quintessential American party food. It became synonymous with gatherings like Super Bowl parties, potlucks, and family reunions. Its creamy, communal nature encourages sharing and conversation. The dish represents a fusion in itself, taking inspiration from various culinary traditions—the artichoke with its Mediterranean roots and the creamy, cheesy base common in American comfort food—to create something uniquely suited to the casual, social dining style popular in the United States.
The evolution of the recipe into Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups is a testament to modern culinary creativity and the desire for more individualized, portable foods. As entertaining styles evolved, the demand for mess-free, bite-sized appetizers grew. Using wonton wrappers, a staple of East Asian dumplings, as a vessel was an innovative solution. This adaptation showcases how global ingredients can be repurposed to reinvent classic dishes, making them more suitable for contemporary eating habits and presentation standards.
Regional variations of the base dip abound, which naturally influences potential variations of the wonton cup. In the American South, you might find a version with added jalapeños for heat. On the West Coast, additions like sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs are common. The wonton cup format itself is incredibly adaptable, allowing these regional twists to shine. This flexibility ensures the recipe remains relevant and can be customized to reflect local tastes and ingredient availability, continuing its journey as a dynamic and beloved dish.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Wonton Wrappers: Wonton wrappers are thin sheets of dough made from wheat flour, egg, and water, originating from Chinese cuisine where they are used to make dumplings and wontons. They are a fantastic culinary shortcut, providing a delicate, crispy shell when baked. Look for square wrappers in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, usually near the tofu. Ensure they are pliable and not dried out. You can substitute them with gyoza wrappers or even thinly rolled phyllo dough for a different texture.
Spinach: We use frozen chopped spinach for its convenience and consistency. Spinach has a long history, cultivated for centuries in Persia before spreading to the rest of the world. It is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with iron, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber. For this recipe, it is crucial to thaw the spinach completely and then squeeze out every bit of excess water using a clean kitchen towel or your hands. This step is non-negotiable; otherwise, you will end up with a watery filling. You can use fresh spinach that has been wilted and thoroughly dried, but frozen is often easier.
Artichoke Hearts: Artichokes are a type of thistle, with a history dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. We use canned or jarred artichoke hearts packed in water for ease. They provide a tangy, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Artichokes are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate. When preparing them, drain them well and give them a rough chop. Be sure to check for any tough, fibrous pieces and discard them.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is a fresh, soft cheese that provides the luxurious, creamy base for the filling. It was developed in the United States in the late 19th century. It acts as a binder, holding all the other ingredients together while contributing a mild tanginess. For best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing so it blends smoothly without lumps. Full-fat versions will yield the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese from Italy with a rich, salty, umami flavor. It intensifies the savory profile of the filling and helps it brown beautifully on top. Finely grated Parmesan from a block will have far superior flavor and meltability compared to the pre-shredded kind found in canisters, which often contains anti-caking agents. Its sharpness cuts through the richness of the cream cheese perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Squeezing the Spinach Dry: This is the most common and critical error. Frozen spinach holds a significant amount of water. If you do not squeeze it out thoroughly, the water will leach into the filling during baking. Consequently, your filling will be soupy, and the bottom of the wonton cups will become soggy instead of crisp.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Attempting to mix cold, hard cream cheese with the other ingredients will result in a lumpy, uneven filling. Always take the time to let your cream cheese soften on the counter for about 30 minutes before you begin assembling the recipe. This ensures a silky-smooth, homogenous mixture.
- Overfilling the Wonton Cups: It is tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, but this leads to overflow in the oven. The filling bubbles and expands as it heats. Filling each cup just to the top, or slightly below, is the perfect amount. This prevents mess and ensures even cooking.
- Using a Greased Muffin Tin: Do not grease your muffin tin. The small amount of fat in the wonton wrappers is sufficient to prevent sticking, and greasing the pan can cause the cups to slide down or lose their shape during baking. The dry heat of the oven is what creates their crisp structure.
- Underbaking the Wonton Cups: If you remove the cups from the oven before the wrappers are deeply golden brown, they will be pale and chewy instead of crisp. Bake them until the edges are a rich, toasted color and the filling is bubbly. This color is your visual cue for perfect texture.
- Not Letting Them Cool Slightly: Serving these Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups straight from the oven is a recipe for burned mouths. The filling becomes extremely hot. Let them rest in the muffin tin for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to handle and eat.
Essential Techniques
Pressing Wonton Wrappers: The technique of pressing the wonton wrappers into the muffin tin is fundamental to the recipe’s success. Gently guide each wrapper into the cup, pressing it into the bottom and against the sides. The goal is to create a neat cup shape without tearing the delicate dough. Do not force it; instead, use a light touch. The corners will naturally stick up and create a beautiful, rustic-looking cup that turns crispy and golden. This technique ensures each cup is an edible container that holds its shape and filling.
Squeezing Spinach Dry: Mastering this technique is non-negotiable for a perfect filling. After thawing the spinach, place it in the center of a clean, lint-free kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Gather the edges of the towel and twist it tightly over the sink, applying firm pressure to wring out all the liquid. You will be surprised by how much water releases. Continue squeezing until no more moisture drips out. This step is the primary defense against a watery dip and soggy wonton cups.
Mixing the Filling: Proper mixing ensures a consistent flavor and texture in every bite. Start with room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps. Use a sturdy spoon or a spatula to mix the cream cheese until it is smooth before adding the other ingredients. Then, fold in the spinach, artichokes, cheeses, and seasonings until everything is evenly distributed. Be thorough but gentle; you do not want to pulverize the artichokes. A well-mixed filling bakes evenly and provides a uniform experience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups
For an extra flavor boost, sauté a clove of minced garlic in a teaspoon of butter before adding it to the filling mixture. This step mellows the raw garlic bite and adds a deeper, more complex aromatic base to your cups.
Grate your own Parmesan cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains starches that prevent clumping but also prevent it from melting as smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will integrate better and provide a superior flavor and texture.
If you want a bit of heat, add a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. This addition creates a wonderful contrast to the rich, creamy cheese and adds another layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
Do not discard any broken wonton wrappers. If one tears while you are pressing it into the tin, simply use two overlapping wrappers to form the cup. The filling will bind them together during baking, and no one will ever know the difference.
For a beautiful, golden-brown top, you can give the cups a quick blast under the broiler for the last minute of baking. Watch them carefully, however, as they can burn very quickly under the intense heat of the broiler.
Let the baked cups cool in the muffin tin for at least 5 minutes before attempting to remove them. This allows the crispy shells to firm up slightly, making them less likely to break when you lift them out with a small offset spatula or spoon.
Variations and Adaptations
Regional Variations: You can easily tailor these cups to reflect different regional tastes. For a Southern twist, mix in some finely chopped pickled jalapeños or a dash of Cajun seasoning. To channel Mediterranean flavors, add some chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano. For a taste of the Pacific Northwest, incorporate some smoked salmon into the filling along with a touch of dill.
Seasonal Adaptations: While the core recipe is year-round, you can highlight seasonal produce. In the spring, add fresh chopped chives or asparagus tips. During the summer, mix in some fresh basil or roasted corn. For a fall version, a pinch of nutmeg or some caramelized onions would be a wonderful addition that complements the season’s cozy vibes.
Dietary Modifications: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for various diets. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free wonton wrappers or create cups using thinly sliced sweet potato rounds. To make it dairy-free, use your favorite plant-based cream cheese and Parmesan-style shreds. For a keto or low-carb option, you can form the cups using sliced provolone cheese baked in the muffin tin until crisp, then fill them.
Flavor Variations: Do not be afraid to experiment with the cheese blend. Swap the Parmesan for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Gruyère. You can also add different ingredients to the base filling, such as cooked and crumbled bacon, crab meat, or finely diced ham. A teaspoon of lemon zest can also brighten up the entire dish beautifully.
Serving and Presentation Guide
Plating Techniques: Presentation is key to making these appetizers look as good as they taste. Arrange the warm Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups on a simple, elegant platter or a wooden board. Space them out slightly so they are easy to pick up. You can also use a tiered stand for a more dramatic effect, which saves table space and adds height to your appetizer spread.
Garnishing Ideas: A simple garnish elevates the visual appeal instantly. A light sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness. For a more sophisticated look, you can drizzle a tiny bit of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. A few extra artichoke heart pieces placed on top of the filling before baking also makes them look extra special.
Traditional Accompaniments: While these cups are a complete bite on their own, you can serve them with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. This is a classic pairing that echoes the flavors of other baked, cheesy appetizers. Alternatively, a cool, herby yogurt dip or a simple ranch dressing can provide a refreshing contrast.
Wine and Beverage Pairing
Wine Pairings: The rich, creamy, and savory nature of these wonton cups pairs wonderfully with wines that have good acidity to cut through the fat. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are excellent choices. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied, low-tannin red like a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais will complement the dish without overpowering it. The acidity and fruit notes in these wines cleanse the palate between bites.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is perfect. Iced herbal teas, such as mint or lemon verbena, also work beautifully. A crisp, non-alcoholic ginger beer can provide a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling, making each bite feel new and exciting.
Beer and Cocktails: A light lager or pilsner is a classic and crowd-pleasing pairing that will not compete with the flavors of the appetizer. For a cocktail, a classic Gin and Tonic or a Vodka Soda with a twist of lime are excellent choices. Their clean, crisp profiles act as a palate cleanser, preparing you for the next delicious bite of your Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups.
Storage and Shelf Life
Storage Methods: Store any leftover Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 2-3 days. Place them in a single layer if possible, or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. The crispy texture of the wonton wrapper will soften in the fridge, but they will still be tasty.
Reheating Instructions: To recrisp the wonton cups, reheating in an oven or toaster oven is essential. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the shells soggy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cups on a baking sheet. Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until the filling is warm and the shells are crisp again. This method restores much of their original texture and flavor.
Freezing Guidelines: You can freeze these cups either before or after baking. For unbaked cups, assemble them and freeze solid on the baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Already-baked cups can also be frozen and reheated in the oven. While the texture may be slightly less perfect, they are still a fantastic make-ahead option for busy hosts.
Make Ahead Strategies
Prep Timeline: These Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups are ideal for making ahead. You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The wonton cups can be assembled in the muffin tin, covered tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerated for several hours before you need to bake them. This makes party day execution incredibly smooth and stress-free.
Storage Between Steps: When storing the prepared, unbaked cups in the fridge, ensure the muffin tin is well-covered with plastic wrap to prevent the wonton wrappers from drying out. If the filling has been chilled, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before filling the cups to make it easier to spoon. There is no need to adjust the baking time for chilled cups.
Assembly Tips: For the ultimate make-ahead plan, consider a “station” approach. Have your muffin tin ready, the wonton wrappers laid out, and the pre-made filling in a bowl with a spoon. Then, a trusted helper can quickly assemble all the cups just before party time. This keeps the process fresh and allows you to socialize until the last minute before popping them in the oven.
Scaling Instructions
Halving the Recipe: Halving this recipe is straightforward. Simply use half of all the ingredients. You will make 6 cups instead of 12. Use a standard muffin tin; the empty cups will not affect the baking process. The baking time may be slightly reduced, so start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark. This is perfect for a small family snack or a more intimate dinner party.
Doubling or Tripling: Doubling or tripling the recipe is easy for feeding a large crowd. You will need multiple muffin tins or to bake in batches. Ensure your oven racks are positioned to allow for even air circulation. It is best to mix the filling in a very large bowl to ensure even distribution of ingredients. The baking time should remain consistent, but always rely on visual cues—golden brown edges and bubbly filling—for doneness.
Timing Modifications: When scaling up, the assembly time will increase linearly. To manage this, enlist help or set up an assembly line. You can also stagger the baking if you only have one muffin tin; just keep the assembled, unbaked cups in the refrigerator while the first batch is in the oven. The second batch may bake a minute or two faster since the tin is already hot.
Nutritional Deep Dive
Macro Breakdown: Each Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cup provides a balance of macronutrients. The primary sources of carbohydrates are the wonton wrapper and the vegetables. The fat content comes from the cream cheese and Parmesan, contributing to the creamy texture and satiety. There is a moderate amount of protein from the cheeses. While it is an indulgent appetizer, the portion control inherent in the cup format helps manage calorie intake compared to eating dip with chips from a large bowl.
Micronutrient Analysis: This appetizer is a vehicle for several important micronutrients. Spinach is renowned for its high levels of Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting, and Vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function. Artichokes are an excellent source of folate and Vitamin C. The dairy components provide calcium for bone health. Consequently, you are enjoying a tasty treat that also delivers valuable vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Considerations: For those monitoring specific dietary needs, this recipe can be adapted. As written, it is vegetarian. For gluten-free needs, use appropriate wrappers. To lower the fat content, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, though the texture may be slightly less rich. The sodium content is primarily from the Parmesan cheese and any added salt, so you can adjust seasoning to your preference.
Dietary Adaptations
Gluten-Free: To make gluten-free Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups, the key substitution is the wrapper. Look for certified gluten-free wonton or egg roll wrappers, which are increasingly available. Another creative option is to use thinly sliced russet potatoes pressed into the muffin tin and pre-baked until pliable to form a potato cup. Ensure all other ingredients, like canned artichokes, are checked for gluten-containing additives.
Dairy-Free/Vegan: Creating a vegan version is entirely possible. Use a high-quality, plain, plant-based cream cheese. For the Parmesan, use a store-bought vegan Parmesan shred or a homemade version made from blended nuts, nutritional yeast, and salt. Be sure to use vegan wonton wrappers, as some brands contain egg. The result is a surprisingly creamy and flavorful appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
Keto/Low-Carb: For a keto-friendly version, you must replace the wonton wrapper. A great method is to use slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese. Place a slice in each muffin cup and bake for a few minutes until melted and pliable. Then, gently shape them into cups as they cool. Use the standard filling, ensuring there are no added sugars in your ingredients. This creates a delicious, fully low-carb vessel.
Troubleshooting Guide
Soggy Wonton Cups: If your cups turn out soggy, the most likely culprit is excess moisture in the spinach. Next time, be relentless about squeezing it dry. Another cause could be underbaking; ensure the edges are a deep golden brown. If you are reheating leftovers, always use an oven or toaster oven, never a microwave, to restore crispness.
Lumpy Filling: A lumpy filling is almost always due to using cold cream cheese. The solution is simple: always allow your cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing. If you find yourself with a lumpy mixture, you can try to beat it vigorously with a whisk, but prevention is the best strategy for a smooth, creamy texture.
Wonton Cups Burning: If the edges of your cups are burning before the filling is hot, your oven temperature may be too high, or the rack may be positioned too high. Oven thermostats can be inaccurate, so using an oven thermometer is helpful. If burning is an issue, you can tent the muffin tin loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking to protect the edges while the filling finishes cooking.
Recipe Success Stories
We have received countless messages from readers who have made these Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups a staple in their entertaining repertoire. One reader, Sarah from Colorado, shared that she made them for her book club and was asked for the recipe by every single person there. She loved that she could prepare them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when her guests arrived, allowing her to be a present hostess.
Another success story comes from Mike, who admitted he was not much of a cook but decided to try this recipe for a football party. He was thrilled with how easy they were to assemble and how impressive they looked. He even added some cooked, crumbled sausage to the filling for a heartier version, which was a huge hit with his friends. This adaptability is a common theme in the feedback we receive.
Many readers have also shared their beautiful photos on social media, showcasing their own garnishes and plating styles. Some have arranged them on a bed of kale for a pop of green, while others have served them in the muffin tin for a rustic, family-style presentation. Seeing the creative ways people make this recipe their own is one of the most rewarding parts of sharing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You will need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach. Wilt it in a pan with a tiny bit of water, then drain it and squeeze it completely dry using the same towel method. This extra step is crucial to remove all excess moisture from the fresh leaves.
Can I make these without a muffin tin? A muffin tin is highly recommended to form the cup shape. However, in a pinch, you can try shaping them over the backside of a mini muffin tin or even in a mini tart pan. The structure of the muffin cup is what helps them hold their shape so well during baking.
Why are my wonton cups puffing up in the middle? Some puffing is normal, but if they are puffing up too much, you can dock them. This means using a fork to prick the bottom of the wonton wrapper once or twice before adding the filling. This allows steam to escape and helps the wrapper lay flat against the tin.
Can I use phyllo dough instead? Absolutely. Phyllo dough will create an even flakier, more delicate cup. You will need to brush each layer of phyllo with a little melted butter or oil before pressing it into the muffin tin. It is a bit more labor-intensive but yields a beautifully crisp and elegant result.
How do I keep them warm for a party? The best way to keep them warm is to place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven after they have initially cooled. This low temperature will keep them warm and crisp without continuing to cook them. You can hold them for up to an hour this way.
Can I add meat to this recipe? Definitely. Cooked, crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken are excellent additions. Just make sure any meat you add is fully cooked and well-drained before mixing it into the filling. This can turn the appetizer into a more substantial bite.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Always reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warm and crisp. The microwave will make the wonton cups soft and chewy, so it is not the best method for preserving the desired texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, the cheese blend is very adaptable. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a sharp white cheddar would all work wonderfully. You can use a single cheese or a combination. Just aim for about the same total volume of cheese called for in the recipe.
Additional Resources
If you loved these Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups, you might enjoy exploring other easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers on our site. Our recipe for Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups uses a similar technique for a spicy, tangy alternative. For a sweet option, our Cinnamon Sugar Wonton Cups filled with fruit and yogurt are a hit for brunch. We also have a comprehensive guide to working with wonton wrappers, showcasing their incredible versatility beyond traditional dumplings.
For those looking to deepen their understanding of the core ingredients, we have detailed posts on selecting and storing artichokes, the health benefits of spinach, and a guide to the world of cheeses for cooking. Mastering these fundamental ingredients will make you a more confident and creative cook in the kitchen, allowing you to adapt and perfect recipes to your own taste.
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Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups
Description
Crispy wonton cups filled with a creamy spinach and artichoke mixture, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 1 cup chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Press one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, forming a cup shape.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. Remove from oven and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture into the baked wonton cups.
- Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
I’m Shaykee—born in Morocco, seasoned across continents. From airplane galleys to home kitchens, I share the flavors and stories that shaped my journey.