Beyond Egg Rolls: Creative Recipes Using Egg Roll Wrappers

Egg roll wrappers are a staple in many Asian cuisines, primarily used for making, well, egg rolls! But these versatile sheets of dough are capable of so much more. Their thin, delicate texture and neutral flavor make them a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Think beyond the traditional deep-fried rolls and explore a world of appetizers, entrees, and even desserts that showcase the surprising adaptability of egg roll wrappers. This guide will provide you with innovative recipes and step-by-step instructions to transform your kitchen into a playground of delicious possibilities.

## Why Egg Roll Wrappers Are So Versatile

Before diving into recipes, let’s understand what makes egg roll wrappers so adaptable.

* **Thin and Delicate:** Their thinness allows them to crisp up beautifully when fried, baked, or even air-fried. They provide a satisfying crunch without being overly heavy.
* **Neutral Flavor:** The mild flavor of egg roll wrappers complements a wide range of fillings, from savory meats and vegetables to sweet fruits and creams.
* **Easy to Work With:** They’re pliable and easy to fold, cut, and shape, making them ideal for various culinary creations.
* **Readily Available:** You can find egg roll wrappers in most major grocery stores, typically in the refrigerated section near the produce or dairy area.

## Tips for Working with Egg Roll Wrappers

* **Keep Them Moist:** Egg roll wrappers dry out quickly, so keep them covered with a damp towel while you’re working. This prevents them from cracking or tearing.
* **Use a Light Hand:** Avoid overfilling the wrappers, as this can make them difficult to seal and prone to bursting during cooking.
* **Seal Properly:** Use a simple egg wash (egg beaten with a little water) or a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to seal the edges of the wrappers securely.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy wrappers.
* **Cook to Golden Brown:** Whether you’re frying, baking, or air-frying, cook the wrappers until they’re golden brown and crispy.

## Savory Recipes Using Egg Roll Wrappers

Here are some exciting savory recipes to try with egg roll wrappers:

### 1. Baked Pizza Rolls

These pizza rolls are a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version, delivering all the cheesy, savory goodness without the extra grease.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 1 cup pizza sauce
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Italian seasoning (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
4. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce in the center of the wrapper, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and top with pepperoni slices.
6. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
7. Brush the top of the roll with egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning (if using).
8. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

### 2. Chicken Pot Pie Triangles

These savory triangles are a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic comfort food of chicken pot pie.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
* 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
* 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

**Instructions:**

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables. Heat through.
4. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold the wrapper in half diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal.
7. Brush the triangles with egg wash.
8. Place the triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

### 3. Spinach and Artichoke Dip Wonton Cups

These crispy wonton cups are filled with a creamy, cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, making them a perfect appetizer for parties or gatherings.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 1 package (10 ounces) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
* 1 cup ricotta cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil spray

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil spray.
3. Cut each egg roll wrapper into four squares.
4. Gently press each square into the muffin tin to form a cup.
5. In a bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture into the wonton cups.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the wonton cups are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

### 4. Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

A fun twist on a classic comfort food, these egg rolls are filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and all the fixings.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons mustard
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Oil for frying
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
* Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickles

**Instructions:**

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cheddar cheese, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
6. Place about 1/4 cup of the cheeseburger mixture in the center of the wrapper.
7. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
8. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
9. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
10. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
11. Drain on paper towels.
12. Serve with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pickles.

### 5. Buffalo Chicken Rolls

Spicy and flavorful, these rolls are filled with shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and cheese. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
* 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
* 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* Oil for frying
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, celery, and green onions.
2. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the buffalo chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
5. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels.
9. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

### 6. Reuben Rolls

A creative take on the classic Reuben sandwich, these rolls are filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
* 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
* 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
* 1/2 cup Russian dressing
* Oil for frying
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing.
2. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the Reuben mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
5. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels.
9. Serve with extra Russian dressing for dipping.

## Sweet Recipes Using Egg Roll Wrappers

Egg roll wrappers aren’t just for savory dishes. They can also be used to create delicious desserts!

### 1. Apple Pie Rolls

These apple pie rolls are a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a crispy, portable form.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
* Cinnamon sugar for coating

**Instructions:**

1. In a saucepan, combine the apples, sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the apple mixture in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
7. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
8. Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

### 2. Nutella and Banana Rolls

A decadent and easy dessert, these rolls are filled with creamy Nutella and sliced bananas.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 1/2 cup Nutella
* 2 bananas, sliced
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
* Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
2. Spread a thin layer of Nutella in the center of the wrapper.
3. Top with banana slices.
4. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
5. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
6. Fry in a skillet with a little bit of oil, or bake them at 375°F for 10 minutes.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (if using) and serve immediately.

### 3. Cheesecake Chimichangas

These creamy and indulgent chimichangas are filled with a cheesecake-like filling and deep-fried to golden perfection. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with your favorite fruit sauce.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 egg
* Oil for frying
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
* Powdered sugar for dusting
* Fruit sauce for serving (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Beat in the egg.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
4. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
6. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
7. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry the chimichangas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain on paper towels.
10. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fruit sauce (if using).

### 4. S’mores Egg Rolls

A fun and easy dessert that captures the classic flavors of s’mores. These egg rolls are filled with marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers, then fried until golden brown and gooey.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 1 cup mini marshmallows
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips
* 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
* Oil for frying
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crushed graham crackers.
2. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the s’mores mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
5. Brush the top edge with egg wash to seal.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the marshmallows are melted.
8. Drain on paper towels.
9. Serve immediately.

### 5. Caramel Apple Pie Egg Rolls

These egg rolls combine the comforting flavors of apple pie with the sweetness of caramel. A delightful treat for any occasion.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 package egg roll wrappers
* 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
* 1/2 cup caramel sauce
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
* Optional: Vanilla ice cream for serving

**Instructions:**

1. In a saucepan, combine diced apples, caramel sauce, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the sauce has thickened (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface, keeping the rest covered with a damp towel.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the caramel apple mixture in the center.
6. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly from bottom to top, using egg wash to seal.
7. Brush the outside of the egg rolls with melted butter or cooking spray.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

## Air Fryer Egg Roll Wrapper Recipes

For a healthier twist, many of these recipes can be adapted for the air fryer. Simply preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the egg rolls for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking oil before air frying for extra crispiness.

## Conclusion

Egg roll wrappers are a surprisingly versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious dishes, from savory appetizers and entrees to sweet desserts. With a little creativity and these easy-to-follow recipes, you can transform your kitchen into a culinary playground and impress your family and friends with your innovative creations. So, ditch the takeout menu and start exploring the endless possibilities of egg roll wrappers today!