Deep-Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Wonton Bites

Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup fresh strawberries (diced small, or use strawberry jam if fresh strawberries are not available)
For the Wonton Bites:
10-12 wonton wrappers
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for coating)
Instructions:
1. Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.
Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries (or use strawberry jam if you prefer a smoother filling). Set aside.
2. Assemble the Wonton Bites:
Lay the wonton wrappers flat on a clean surface. If they’re square, you can keep them as-is, or cut them into triangles for a smaller bite size.
Place about 1-2 teaspoons of the cheesecake filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling will spread when you fold the wonton.
Brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with a small amount of water, then fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle or fold the edges inward to form a pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal the wonton.
3. Fry the Wonton Bites:
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the wontons.
Carefully drop the filled wontons into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
Remove the fried wontons from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Coat with Sugar and Cinnamon:
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
While the wontons are still warm, roll them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture to coat evenly.
5. Serve:
Serve the deep-fried strawberry cheesecake wonton bites immediately, while they’re still warm and crispy.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or a drizzle of extra strawberry jam for dipping.