If you’ve ever craved those crispy, creamy bites of heavenly goodness from your favorite Chinese takeout, you’re in for a treat! This Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe perfectly captures that irresistible combination of savory cream cheese filling wrapped in delicate, crunchy wonton shells. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and once you take that first bite, you’ll wonder why you ever waited to make these at home. Let’s dive into the magic of creating a batch of golden, crispy, cream cheese-packed delights that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tangy cream cheese to the fragrant scallions, giving the rangoon that authentic taste you love.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The rich, smooth base that makes each bite delightfully creamy.
- 3 Tablespoons thinly diced scallions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Just a touch of warmth and depth to enhance the taste.
- 24 wonton wrappers: These thin sheets become the crispy, golden wrapper that encases the filling perfectly.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for getting that irresistible crunchy exterior without overpowering the flavors.
How to Make Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining the softened cream cheese, diced scallions, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Mix everything together until smooth and evenly combined. This creamy, flavorful filling is the heart of the Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe, ensuring each bite bursts with savory goodness.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour about 3 inches of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep pan and heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden crisp without absorbing too much oil.
Step 3: Fill the Wontons
Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon approximately 2 teaspoons of the cream cheese mixture right in the center. Be careful not to overfill, so the wontons seal easily and fry evenly.
Step 4: Moisten the Edges
Dip your finger in water and lightly moisten all four edges of the wrapper. This simple step ensures your rangoon seal tightly and hold their shape throughout frying.
Step 5: Seal the Wontons
Fold the edges toward the center, gently pressing to seal the filling inside. You can pinch the pleats or just press the edges together firmly, creating that familiar little pouch shape. Make sure no gaps allow the filling to escape during cooking.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place a few filled wontons into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 1 minute or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The sizzling sound and rich color tell you when they’re perfectly crispy and ready.
Step 7: Drain and Cool
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried rangoon to paper towels or a wire rack to drain any excess oil. This step helps keep them crisp and not greasy. Repeat with the remaining wontons.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe is best enjoyed hot with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping. The combination of creamy filling and crunchy wrapper dipped in sweet and spicy sauce will have everyone coming back for more.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few chopped scallions or a pinch of toasted sesame seeds on top adds fresh color and texture, making the Cream Cheese Rangoon even more visually inviting and flavorful.
Side Dishes
These rangoon pair beautifully with classic Asian sides like steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or crunchy Asian slaw. A bowl of hot soup, such as egg drop or hot and sour, also complements the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange the rangoon on a platter lined with banana leaves or colorful parchment paper. Serving with multiple dipping sauces—like soy sauce, spicy mustard, and sweet chili—creates an interactive appetizer experience that’s sure to impress friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, but the wrapper may lose some crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This way, you can fry them straight from frozen whenever you want a quick snack.
Reheating
To reheat leftover rangoon and restore their crunch, pop them in a 350-degree oven or toaster oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the wrapper soft and soggy.
FAQs
Can I bake the rangoon instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking rangoon is a healthier alternative—just brush them lightly with oil and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Cream cheese is key to that creamy texture, but you can try blending ricotta or mascarpone with a pinch of salt and garlic powder as a substitute, though the taste will be slightly different.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Some people like adding cooked crab meat, finely chopped cooked chicken, or even a bit of shredded cheese to customize the filling. Just be sure to balance the moisture so the wontons don’t get soggy.
Why are my wontons not sealing properly?
Moistening the edges with water is essential for sealing; make sure you apply a thin, even layer. Too much water can cause the wrapper to tear, while too little prevents a tight seal.
Can I prepare the rangoon in advance for a party?
Yes! Assemble the rangoon up to a day ahead and refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. Fry just before serving for the freshest, crispiest results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe at home — it’s comfort food that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer for friends or a snack for yourself, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and watch as everyone falls in love with these golden, crispy pockets of creamy goodness.
Print
Cream Cheese Rangoon (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 wontons
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American-Chinese
Description
Cream Cheese Rangoon, a popular appetizer famously served at Panda Express, features crispy fried wonton wrappers filled with a creamy mixture of softened cream cheese, scallions, and a hint of garlic powder. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, snacks, or an indulgent treat served with sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 3 tablespoons thinly diced scallions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Assembly
- 24 wonton wrappers
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 3 inches deep)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, thinly diced scallions, and garlic powder together until well combined and smooth.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or high-sided pan to approximately 3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for frying.
- Fill the Wontons: Lay out a single wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 2 teaspoons of the cream cheese filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Seal the Wontons: Use your finger dipped in water to moisten all four edges of the wrapper. Fold the edges together towards the center, pressing firmly to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaking during frying.
- Fry the Rangoon: Carefully place a few wontons at a time into the hot oil. Fry for about 1 minute, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried rangoon using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels or a wire rack to drain off excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the Cream Cheese Rangoon warm with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature and ensure crispiness.
- For easier sealing, keep the wonton wrappers covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out.
- Leftover cooked rangoon can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- Use caution when working with hot oil to avoid burns.
