Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—this is your flavor moment.
Assembly
- Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you.
- Keep a damp towel over the remaining wrappers so they don’t dry out.
- Spoon about 1½ tablespoons of the filling onto the lower third of the wrapper.
- Wet the top edges lightly with the beaten egg wash.
- Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, fold in the sides snugly, and roll up tightly, sealing the edge.
- Repeat until all wrappers are filled.
Cooking
- For frying, heat 1 to 1½ inches of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Test with a scrap of wrapper; it should bubble and brown quickly.
- Fry rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain.
- For baking, preheat oven to 425°F. Place egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush or spray lightly with oil.
- Bake 12–18 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy and golden.
- For extra crispness, finish with a 1–2 minute broil—watch closely.
Serving
- Let rest 2 minutes before serving so the molten cheese settles just enough to be decadent but not runaway.
Notes
Swap spinach with kale for a stronger green flavor, or use turkey bacon for a healthier option. For an indulgent dessert contrast, finish a separate batch with a drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty experience.
