Can I Use Egg Roll Wrappers Instead of Wonton Wrappers

Egg roll wrappers and wonton wrappers are both thin dough sheets used in Asian cuisine, but can they be used interchangeably? Many home cooks wonder, “Can I use egg roll wrappers instead of wonton wrappers?” The answer depends on the recipe and cooking method. While egg roll wrappers work well for frying, they may not be the best choice for steamed or boiled wontons. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between egg roll wrappers vs wonton wrappers, the best substitutes, and how to modify them for different dishes.

Understanding Egg Roll Wrappers and Wonton Wrappers

What Are Egg Roll Wrappers?

Egg roll wrappers are thin, pliable sheets made from wheat flour, water, and eggs. They have a slightly chewy texture and are traditionally used to wrap fillings for fried egg rolls.

Key Characteristics of Egg Roll Wrappers

• Size & Thickness: Larger and thicker than wonton wrappers
• Texture: Slightly chewy and crisp up when fried
• Cooking Methods: Best for frying, baking, or air frying
• Common Uses: Making egg rolls, fried spring rolls, and sometimes as a crispy topping for dishes

Egg roll wrappers can be found in most grocery stores, typically in the refrigerated or frozen section near other Asian food products.

What Are Wonton Wrappers?

Wonton wrappers are small, square sheets of dough used mainly for making wontons and dumplings. They are made from similar ingredients as egg roll wrappers but are much thinner and smaller.

Key Characteristics of Wonton Wrappers

• Size & Thickness: Smaller and thinner than egg roll wrappers
• Texture: Soft and flexible, turns silky when boiled or steamed
• Cooking Methods: Used for boiling, steaming, or frying
• Common Uses: Making wontons, dumplings, crab rangoon, and soup dumplings

Wonton wrappers are typically not as sturdy as egg roll wrappers, making them better suited for delicate fillings and bite-sized portions.

Key Differences Between Egg Roll and Wonton Wrappers

While both wrappers share similar ingredients, their size, thickness, and ideal cooking methods set them apart. If you’re considering swapping one for the other, understanding these differences is essential.

Can You Use Egg Roll Wrappers Instead of Wonton Wrappers?

When Is It a Good Substitute?

Egg roll wrappers can be used instead of wonton wrappers, but with some limitations. They work best in recipes where the difference in thickness and texture won’t significantly affect the final dish.

Best Situations for Substituting Egg Roll Wrappers

• Fried Wontons – Since egg roll wrappers crisp up well when fried, they can be used as a substitute for deep-fried wontons.
• Baked or Air-Fried Recipes – Egg roll wrappers can work for baked appetizers that require a crispy exterior.
• Large Dumplings or Potstickers – If cut to size, egg roll wrappers can be used in dumpling recipes where the wrapper is pan-fried and steamed.

Egg roll wrappers are not ideal for boiled wontons or soup dumplings, as they are too thick and may become chewy instead of delicate.

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Challenges of Using Egg Roll Wrappers for Wontons

While egg roll wrappers can replace wonton wrappers in some recipes, there are key challenges to consider:

1. Thickness & Texture Differences
   • Egg roll wrappers are thicker, making them harder to fold and seal when making small wontons.
   • Wontons require a thin, delicate wrapper that remains soft after cooking, which egg roll wrappers may not achieve.
2. Cooking Method Adjustments
   • Boiling or steaming egg roll wrappers can make them too chewy and tough.
   • Frying works better, but the wontons may be larger and crispier than expected.
3. Folding and Sealing Issues
   • Wonton wrappers are soft and easy to fold, while egg roll wrappers may crack if they dry out.
   • Extra water or egg wash is needed to ensure they stay sealed properly.

How to Modify Egg Roll Wrappers for Wonton Recipes

If you need to use egg roll wrappers instead of wonton wrappers, follow these modifications for better results:

1. Cut Them to the Right Size

Since egg roll wrappers are larger, cut them into 3-4 inch squares to match wonton wrapper dimensions. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors for clean edges.

2. Soften the Wrappers Before Use

• Lightly dampen the edges with water to make them more flexible.
• Cover with a damp towel while assembling to prevent drying out.

3. Adjust Cooking Methods

• For frying: Use lower heat to prevent over-crisping.
• For boiling/steaming: Roll the wrapper thinner before using to avoid chewiness.

By making these adjustments, egg roll wrappers can be used in place of wonton wrappers for some dishes, but they won’t be a perfect match in every case.

Best Substitutes for Wonton Wrappers

If you don’t have wonton wrappers on hand, there are several great alternatives you can use. While egg roll wrappers are one option, some substitutes may work better depending on the dish you’re making.

Homemade Wonton Wrappers

If you want an authentic texture, making wonton wrappers from scratch is a great option. They require only a few ingredients and can be rolled to the perfect thinness.

Homemade Wonton Wrapper Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
• Cornstarch (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Create a well in the center and add the egg and water.
3. Stir until a dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Wrap in plastic and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll the dough out as thin as possible and cut into 3-4 inch squares.
6. Dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking and store in the fridge until needed.

Why Use Homemade Wrappers?
✔️ Closest texture to store-bought wonton wrappers
✔️ Customizable thickness
✔️ Great for fresh dumplings and wontons

Alternative Store-Bought Wrappers

If you don’t have wonton wrappers, several other store-bought options work well.

1. Dumpling Wrappers (Best Substitute)

• Thin, soft, and flexible
• Perfect for boiling, steaming, or frying
• Slightly larger but easy to cut to size
• Where to find: Asian grocery stores or the refrigerated section of supermarkets

✅ Best choice for making wontons and dumplings

2. Spring Roll Wrappers

• Made from rice flour and water (not wheat-based like wonton wrappers)
• Best for fresh spring rolls but can also be deep-fried
• Not ideal for boiling or steaming

✅ Works well for crispy, deep-fried wonton substitutes

3. Egg Roll Wrappers (As Discussed)

• Can be used but require adjustments
• Best for frying but too thick for boiling

✅ Good option if cut smaller and used in fried recipes

Using Pasta Sheets as a Substitute

For a creative alternative, fresh pasta sheets (like those used for lasagna) can be cut into small squares and used as wonton wrappers.

How to Use Pasta Sheets for Wontons

1. Cut fresh pasta sheets into 3-4 inch squares.
2. Lightly dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
3. Fill and seal like regular wontons.
4. Best for boiling or steaming (not frying).

✅ Best for homemade dumplings or ravioli-style wontons
🚫 Not great for frying (too soft and delicate)

Choosing the Best Substitute for Your Recipe

The best substitute depends on how you plan to cook your dish. If boiling or steaming, dumpling wrappers or pasta sheets work best. If frying, egg roll wrappers or spring roll wrappers can be used with adjustments.

Can You Use Egg Roll Wrappers for Dumplings?

Many people wonder if egg roll wrappers can replace dumpling wrappers, especially when making potstickers or steamed dumplings. While it’s possible, there are some key differences to consider before using them as a substitute.

Differences Between Dumpling Wrappers and Egg Roll Wrappers

Dumpling wrappers are designed specifically for making steamed, boiled, or pan-fried dumplings. Egg roll wrappers, on the other hand, are meant for deep-frying and tend to be thicker and less flexible.

Egg roll wrappers lack the softness and flexibility of dumpling wrappers, making them difficult to pleat and seal properly.

Tips for Using Egg Roll Wrappers for Dumplings

If egg roll wrappers are your only option, follow these tips to make them work for dumpling recipes:

1. Cut Them Smaller

• Egg roll wrappers are larger than dumpling wrappers, so cut them into 3-4 inch circles or squares to match dumpling sizes.
• Use a cookie cutter or a round glass to create a circular shape similar to dumpling wrappers.

2. Soften the Dough

• Dumpling wrappers are soft and elastic, while egg roll wrappers can be a bit stiff.
• To soften them, brush the edges with water before sealing to help them stick together.

3. Adjust Cooking Methods

• Frying: Works well, but use lower heat to prevent over-crisping.
• Steaming: Possible, but egg roll wrappers may turn chewy instead of soft.
• Boiling: Not recommended, as the wrappers may fall apart or become too thick.

When to Avoid Using Egg Roll Wrappers for Dumplings

❌ For Traditional Steamed Dumplings – The texture will be too chewy.
❌ For Boiled Dumplings – Egg roll wrappers don’t hold up well in water.
❌ For Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings) – The thickness prevents the proper texture.

✅ Best Used for Fried Dumplings (Potstickers) – They will crisp up nicely but may require extra moisture to prevent dryness.

Final Verdict: Can You Use Egg Roll Wrappers for Dumplings?

Yes, but only for fried dumplings or potstickers. If you’re making steamed or boiled dumplings, it’s better to use dumpling wrappers, wonton wrappers, or homemade dough for the best texture and taste.

How to Properly Use Egg Roll Wrappers for Wontons

If you only have egg roll wrappers but want to make wontons, you’ll need to adjust their size and texture for the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly use egg roll wrappers for wontons.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Egg Roll Wrappers for Wontons

1. Cut the Wrappers to the Right Size

• Egg roll wrappers are too large for traditional wontons, so cut them into 3-4 inch squares to match wonton wrapper size.
• Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to make even squares.

2. Soften the Wrappers

• Egg roll wrappers are thicker and firmer than wonton wrappers, so they may need to be softened before use.
• Cover them with a damp cloth while working to prevent drying out.
• Brush the edges with water before sealing to help them stick together.

3. Fill and Fold the Wontons Properly

• Add about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each square.
• Fold into a triangle and press the edges to seal.
• For classic wonton shapes, bring the two corners together and pinch.

4. Choose the Right Cooking Method

Since egg roll wrappers are thicker, the cooking method can affect the texture.

Recipe Example: Egg Roll Wrapper Wontons

Try this simple fried wonton recipe using egg roll wrappers!

Ingredients:

• 6 egg roll wrappers (cut into 3-4 inch squares)
• ½ pound ground pork or shrimp
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 green onion (chopped)
• Water (for sealing)
• Oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the filling – In a bowl, mix ground pork (or shrimp) with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and green onions.
2. Cut the wrappers – Trim the egg roll wrappers into 3-4 inch squares.
3. Assemble the wontons – Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper, fold into a triangle, and seal the edges with water.
4. Heat oil – In a pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the wontons – Cook until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Drain and serve – Place on a paper towel to remove excess oil and serve with dipping sauce.

Best Served With: Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or hot mustard.

Final Tips for Using Egg Roll Wrappers for Wontons

Best for fried or baked wontons – Avoid boiling or steaming.
Keep them moist – Work quickly and cover with a damp cloth.
Cut to size – Large egg roll wrappers need trimming for wontons.

By following these steps, you can successfully use egg roll wrappers as a substitute for wonton wrappers—as long as you’re making crispy wontons rather than boiled or steamed ones!

Discover more delicious homemade baking and cooking tips here:
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Homemade Egg Roll Wrappers

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• Author: sarah
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 wrappers 1x

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Description

These homemade egg roll wrappers are thin, pliable, and perfect for wrapping your favorite egg roll fillings! Made with simple ingredients, they are fresh, easy to work with, and much better than store-bought versions. Whether you’re making crispy fried egg rolls or fresh spring rolls, these wrappers are the perfect base for all your favorite fillings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup water (plus more as needed)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for dusting)

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Instructions

1. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg. Gradually add water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide and Roll: Divide the dough into small, equal portions (about 8-10 pieces). Roll each piece into a thin, square or round sheet about 6-7 inches wide.
4. Cook Lightly (Optional): If you prefer a slightly pre-cooked wrapper, heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cook each wrapper for 10-15 seconds on each side until just set but still flexible. Let cool before use.
5. Dust and Store: Lightly dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for later use.

Notes

• If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
• For extra-thin wrappers, use a pasta roller instead of rolling by hand.
• Store unused wrappers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer / Side
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 wrapper per serving
• Calories: 80
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 3g

Keywords: can-i-use-egg-roll-wrappers-instead-of-wonton-wrappers

FAQs:

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about using egg roll wrappers instead of wonton wrappers

Conclusion:

Egg roll wrappers can be used as a substitute for wonton wrappers, but their effectiveness depends on how you plan to cook them. While they work well for fried wontons, they are not ideal for boiling or steaming due to their thicker texture.

Key Takeaways

✔ Best for frying – Egg roll wrappers crisp up well when deep-fried.
✔ Requires adjustments – Cut them into smaller squares and moisten the edges for proper sealing.
❌ Not suitable for boiling or steaming – They become too chewy and thick.
✔ Other alternatives – Dumpling wrappers, homemade wonton wrappers, or pasta sheets may work better for certain recipes.