Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that will impress your friends and family, you’re in the right place! This Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. The crispy, golden exterior combined with the creamy filling creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, making these little bites at home means you can enjoy them fresh out of the fryer!

Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just need a tasty snack after a long day, these rangoons fit perfectly into any occasion. They’re quick to prepare and absolutely delicious, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily made at home: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these rangoons without needing to head out.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these creamy treats—perfect for sharing!
• Make-ahead option: You can assemble the rangoons ahead of time and fry them just before serving.
• Versatile dipping sauces: Serve them with sweet and sour sauce or your favorite dip for an extra kick!
• Perfect party food: These bite-sized delights are always a hit at gatherings, ensuring your guests leave happy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these tasty Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons is easy because you only need some wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• vegetable oil (for frying)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 3 tbsp thinly sliced scallions
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 48 wonton wrappers

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some spice: Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Herb it up: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for added freshness.
• Cheesy twist: Blend in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy delight.
• Vegetable boost: Fold in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

How to Make Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a medium frying pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F. It should be about 3 inches deep. This step is crucial because the right temperature will ensure that your rangoons fry evenly and become beautifully golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, sliced scallions, and garlic powder until smooth. Mixing these ingredients well allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature creamy filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Rangoons

Take about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture and place it in the center of each wonton wrapper. Brush the edges with room temperature water—it helps seal them tightly. Then fold each wonton by bringing the sides into the center and pinching firmly. This step gives your rangoons that lovely shape!

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Carefully place the assembled wontons into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Fry until they turn golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This ensures they stay crispy without excess grease.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow your freshly fried rangoons to cool down for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Pair them with some sweet and sour dipping sauce for an unforgettable appetizer experience!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons!

Pro Tips for Making Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

Making these cream cheese rangoons at home can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Use softened cream cheese: This helps the filling blend smoothly, making it easier to scoop into the wonton wrappers and ensuring a creamy texture in every bite.

• Seal the edges well: Brushing water on the edges of the wonton wrappers is key. A good seal prevents any filling from leaking out during frying, keeping your rangoons intact and delicious.

• Monitor oil temperature: Keeping the oil at 350F is crucial. If it’s too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains cold; if it’s too cool, your rangoons will absorb excess oil and become greasy.

• Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot. Frying in smaller batches allows each rangoon to cook evenly and become beautifully golden brown without sticking together.

• Let them cool slightly: Allowing your rangoons to cool for 5-10 minutes after frying helps them set up nicely and enhances their flavor before serving. Plus, it keeps anyone from burning their mouth!

How to Serve Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

These crispy, creamy appetizers are sure to impress your family and friends! Present them beautifully for a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: Sprinkle some on top for a fresh touch that complements the creaminess.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch.
• Fresh cilantro leaves: These can add a pop of color and a burst of freshness that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Sweet and sour sauce: A classic pairing that balances the richness of the rangoons with its tangy flavor.
• Fried rice: The savory flavors of fried rice provide a hearty complement to your light appetizers.
• Vegetable stir-fry: A mix of colorful veggies adds nutrition and texture, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Egg drop soup: This warm, comforting soup pairs perfectly with crispy rangoons for a satisfying appetizer course.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons will shine at any gathering! Enjoy making them as much as you’ll love sharing (or devouring) them!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful snack or appetizer anytime! With a bit of planning, you can make these ahead and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried rangoons to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the rangoons but do not fry them.
• Place uncooked rangoons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen rangoons to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated rangoons, reheat in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• For frozen rangoons, fry directly from the freezer; they may need an extra minute or two to cook through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making these delightful rangoons, here are some common questions!

Can I use different fillings in the Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like crabmeat (if desired), vegetables, or even different cheeses. Just ensure your filling is well-balanced with cream cheese for the best texture.

How do I achieve that crispy texture with my Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe?

To get perfectly crispy rangoons, ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350F) before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pot while frying, so each rangoon has enough space to crisp up beautifully.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! While frying gives you that classic crunchy texture, you can bake them at 375F for about 15-20 minutes. Brush them lightly with oil before baking for added crispiness.

What dipping sauces pair well with Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon?

Sweet and sour sauce is a classic choice! You could also try soy sauce or even a spicy chili sauce for some extra kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons as much as I do! They’re not only tasty but also bring a fun touch to any gathering or meal. Remember that cooking is all about joy and creativity—feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Dive into this culinary adventure, and I can’t wait for you to savor every crispy bite!