Crispy Cups with Creamy Filling

This spinach-artichoke dip wonton cup recipe transforms a beloved party dip into an elegant, handheld appetizer that eliminates the need for separate chips and dip. The crispy wonton wrappers create the perfect vessel for the warm, creamy filling, making these bite-sized treats ideal for everything from casual gatherings to sophisticated cocktail parties.

I first made these for a last-minute dinner party and they disappeared within minutes. Since then, they've become my signature appetizer that friends specifically request when they come over. The combination of the crispy wonton cup with the creamy, savory filling creates that perfect textural contrast that makes these irresistible.

Ingredients

• 12 wonton wrappers the secret to the crispy, handheld vessel. Look for them in the refrigerated section near the produce
• Frozen spinach ensures consistent texture. Make sure to thaw and squeeze out ALL excess moisture to prevent soggy cups
• Canned artichoke hearts adds wonderful texture and mild flavor. Choose ones packed in water rather than marinated for better control over flavor
• Mayonnaise creates richness and binds ingredients together. Use real mayonnaise for best results
• Sour cream adds tanginess to balance the richness. Full-fat works best for creaminess
• Cream cheese provides that signature velvety texture. Allow it to come to room temperature for easy mixing
• Parmesan cheese contributes salty, nutty depth. Freshly grated provides superior flavor over pre-packaged
• Fresh garlic delivers essential aromatic flavor. Choose firm cloves without any green sprouts for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Wonton Cups

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Gently press each wonton wrapper into the cavities of a standard muffin tin, allowing the edges to create a cup shape with ruffled edges. Lightly coat with cooking spray which helps them turn golden and crisp. Bake for exactly 5 minutes until they just begin to firm up but are not yet fully browned.

Mix the Filling

While wonton cups pre-bake, combine the thoroughly drained spinach and finely chopped artichoke hearts in a medium bowl. The key is ensuring the spinach is pressed completely dry to prevent soggy cups later. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream and softened cream cheese, mixing until perfectly smooth and creamy. Fold in the grated Parmesan and minced garlic, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.

Fill and Bake

Use a small spoon to carefully divide the spinach-artichoke mixture among the partially baked wonton cups, filling each about three-quarters full. The filling will puff slightly during baking. Return to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching closely toward the end. The perfect wonton cup will have golden brown, crispy edges while the filling is heated through and beginning to bubble gently around the edges.

Bookmark

The artichoke hearts are truly the unsung hero of this recipe. Their subtle, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the spinach, and I discovered their importance when I once made these without them. While still good, they lacked that special dimension that makes this recipe memorable. My mother-in-law, who claimed to dislike artichokes, couldn't stop eating these at our last family gathering!

Make-Ahead Options

These wonton cups can be prepared in stages to make entertaining easier. The wonton cups can be pre-baked up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. When ready to serve, simply fill the cups and bake until heated through. Alternatively, you can completely assemble and bake them, then reheat in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes just before serving.

Creative Variations

While the classic spinach-artichoke combination is perfect, this recipe welcomes customization. Try adding crumbled bacon bits or diced sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for additional flavor dimensions. For a spicy kick, incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can even experiment with different cheeses like sharp white cheddar or smoked gouda in place of some of the Parmesan for varying flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

These wonton cups are best served warm, within 15-20 minutes of baking for optimal crispness. Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling and some chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for color. They pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or champagne for elegant gatherings. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside contrasting options like marinated olives, fresh fruit, or cured meats.

Bookmark

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these wonton cups ahead of time?

Yes! You can pre-bake the wonton cups up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container. The filling can also be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. When ready to serve, fill the cups and bake until heated through and golden.

→ What can I substitute for artichokes if I don't have any?

If you don't have artichokes, try substituting with chopped water chestnuts for crunch, or cooked chopped mushrooms for a different but complementary flavor. You could also use more spinach and add extra cheese for richness.

→ How do I prevent the wonton wrappers from burning?

The two-stage baking process helps prevent burning. Pre-bake the wonton cups for just 5 minutes to set their shape, then add the filling which protects the edges during the final baking. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

→ Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! If using fresh spinach, sauté about 5-6 ounces until wilted, cool slightly, then squeeze out excess moisture and chop finely before mixing with other ingredients. This extra step ensures your filling isn't watery.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover wonton cups in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it will make the wonton wrappers soggy rather than crispy.

→ Can I make these in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized appetizers?

Absolutely! For bite-sized versions, use a mini muffin tin and cut the wonton wrappers into slightly smaller squares if needed. Reduce the initial baking time to 3-4 minutes and the filled baking time to 7-9 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.