These Crispy Shrimp Wonton Cones with Spicy Crab Dip are a show-stopping appetizer that bring together rich seafood flavor, satisfying crunch, and bold, zesty seasoning. Each bite delivers a burst of texture and taste—from the golden-fried wonton cone to the creamy, spicy crab dip and perfectly seasoned shrimp on top. Whether I’m hosting a fancy gathering or just want to wow a few guests, this recipe always brings that “wow” factor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these wonton cones look as amazing as they taste. The combination of warm shrimp, cool and creamy crab dip, and crispy cones is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make with store-bought wonton wrappers and just a few fresh seafood ingredients. This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead, easy to customize, and always makes a bold statement on any appetizer table.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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wonton wrappers (12 squares)
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oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
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nonstick spray or oil brush
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small shrimp (½ lb, peeled and cooked)
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smoked paprika (1 tsp)
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salt & pepper to taste
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olive oil (1 tbsp)
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lump crab meat (8 oz)
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cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
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sour cream (¼ cup)
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mayonnaise (1 tbsp)
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Dijon mustard (1 tsp)
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Old Bay seasoning (1 tsp)
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garlic powder (½ tsp)
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cayenne pepper (½ tsp, optional)
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lemon juice (1 tbsp)
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chopped green onions (2 tbsp plus more for topping)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Crispy Wonton Cones
I preheat the frying oil to 350°F and lightly brush or spray the wonton wrappers with oil on both sides. Then I shape them into cones using foil molds or by draping them over the back of a muffin tin. Frying takes just 1 to 2 minutes until they’re golden and crisp. After draining them on paper towels, I let them cool completely.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp with Smoked Paprika
I toss the cooked shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then sauté in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes. This brings out smoky depth and warms them through.
Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Crab Dip
In a bowl, I mix the lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), lemon juice, and green onions. I stir until it’s creamy and smooth, tasting as I go to balance the flavors.
Step 4: Fill and Assemble the Cones
Once the cones are cool, I spoon in the crab dip and top with a few shrimp. A sprinkle of green onions adds color and a fresh finish.
Step 5: Serve and Impress
I arrange the cones standing upright in glasses or holders for presentation. Served immediately, the crispy cones and rich filling are absolutely unforgettable.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 appetizer servings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Swap the shrimp for diced seared scallops or cooked lobster for an even more luxurious version.
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Make it vegetarian by substituting sautéed mushrooms and artichokes in place of the seafood.
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Add diced jalapeños to the crab dip for an extra kick of heat.
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Try different spice blends like Cajun seasoning or za’atar to switch up the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Storing Leftovers
I keep any leftover crab dip and shrimp in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cones stay crisp best when stored at room temperature uncovered for a few hours.
Freezing
The crab dip freezes well for up to a month, though it may soften a bit after thawing. I don’t freeze the cones—they’re best freshly fried.
Reheating
To re-crisp cones, I pop them into a 325°F oven for 2–3 minutes. For shrimp, a quick reheat in a skillet with a bit of oil works best. Stirring the dip before serving helps bring back its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make these cones ahead of time?
I like to prep the filling and shrimp the day before and refrigerate. I shape and fry the wonton cones right before serving so they stay crunchy.
Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab?
Yes, I’ve swapped in imitation crab before for a budget-friendly version—it still tastes delicious.
Are these spicy? How can I adjust the heat?
The heat level is totally up to me. I go easy on the cayenne for a mild version or add more for extra heat. Smoked paprika adds flavor without too much spice.
What if I don’t have a deep fryer?
I just use a saucepan or deep skillet with hot oil and tongs. A thermometer helps me keep the oil at 350°F for perfect results.
Can I make these gluten free?
With gluten-free wonton wrappers or veggie alternatives like thin cucumber slices, I can keep this dish gluten free. The filling itself is naturally gluten free—just double-check the seasonings.
Conclusion
These Crispy Shrimp Wonton Cones with Spicy Crab Dip are everything I want in an appetizer—crunchy, creamy, flavorful, and visually stunning. They’re a little fancy, a lot of fun, and completely satisfying. Whether I’m planning a party or just feeling like treating myself, this recipe always delivers that perfect bite.
