Homemade Cream Cheese Wontons (Minnesota State Fair Inspired)

One of my favorite stops at the Minnesota State Fair is Leeann Chin. While they’re known for several delicious menu items, I never leave without ordering a basket of their famous cream cheese wontons.

They’re crispy, golden brown, perfectly crunchy, and filled with warm, creamy cheese. Sometimes the simplest recipes really are the best.

Cream cheese wontons have become a staple at Chinese restaurants across the country, and while some versions include crab, garlic, or seasonings, I’ve always preferred the classic version. Just crispy wonton wrappers wrapped around smooth cream cheese.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Better than takeout
Crispy, golden exterior
Rich and creamy filling
Only a few simple ingredients
Ready in under 30 minutes
Minnesota State Fair inspired

Ingredients

1 package wonton wrappers
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Water (for sealing the wrappers)
Peanut oil (or another high-heat frying oil)
Sweet & sour sauce for serving (optional)

Equipment

Deep fryer or Dutch oven
Slotted spoon
Paper towel-lined plate

How to Make Cream Cheese Wontons

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Fill your deep fryer or heavy pot with peanut oil and heat it to 350°F.

Peanut oil is my favorite because it has a high smoke point and produces wonderfully crisp wontons without adding extra flavor.

Canola or vegetable oil also works well.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes.

Softened cream cheese is much easier to scoop and spread than cold cream cheese straight from the refrigerator.

Step 3: Fill the Wontons

Lay one wonton wrapper flat on your work surface.

Place about one teaspoon of softened cream cheese in the center.

Avoid overfilling the wrappers or they’ll be difficult to seal.

Step 4: Seal the Wontons

Dip your finger in water and lightly moisten all four edges of the wrapper.

Fold it diagonally into a triangle, pressing firmly to remove any air pockets.

Then lightly wet the two bottom corners and fold them together to create the classic wonton shape.

Take your time sealing the edges well. If any openings remain, the cream cheese can leak into the hot oil while frying.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

Working in small batches, carefully lower several wontons into the hot oil.

Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, turning occasionally until they are evenly golden brown.

Avoid overcrowding the fryer, as this can lower the oil temperature.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked wontons to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Serve immediately while they’re still warm and wonderfully crispy.

Tips for Perfect Wontons

Always use softened cream cheese.
Seal every edge completely before frying.
Fry in small batches.
Keep the oil around 350°F.
Don’t overfill the wrappers.

Delicious Dipping Sauces

These cream cheese wontons are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a dipping sauce.

Try serving them with:

Sweet and sour sauce
Duck sauce
Sweet chili sauce
Plum sauce
Honey mustard
Orange sauce

Easy Variations

Want to change things up?

Try adding:

Green onions
Garlic powder
Crab meat
Everything bagel seasoning
Jalapeños
Buffalo chicken
Shredded cheddar cheese

But honestly?

I still think the classic cream cheese filling is the best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find wonton wrappers?

Most grocery stores carry wonton wrappers in the produce department or refrigerated deli section. I found mine at Hy-Vee, but many stores keep them near tofu, fresh noodles, or refrigerated Asian ingredients.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Lightly spray them with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as deep-fried wontons, but they’re still delicious.

Can I freeze cream cheese wontons?

Absolutely. Assemble the wontons and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and fry directly from frozen, adding about one extra minute to the cooking time.

Bring the Minnesota State Fair Home

Whether you’re craving Leeann Chin, reminiscing about a trip to the Minnesota State Fair, or simply looking for a fun appetizer to share, these homemade cream cheese wontons are guaranteed to be a hit.

With their crispy golden shell and creamy center, they’re every bit as satisfying as the ones you’d order at your favorite Chinese restaurant—and maybe even better because they’re made fresh in your own kitchen.

Don’t forget to check back tomorrow to see what Minnesota State Fair inspired food we are making. Also, be sure to check out our other state fair recipes.