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There’s something magical about biting into a crispy, golden dumpling. But if you’re like most of us trying to dodge deep-frying at home (because, let’s be real, who wants to clean up that mess?), baked versions come to the rescue. Enter: Baked Rice Paper Dumplings — the crunchy, satisfying snack you didn’t know you needed.
As someone who believes food should be joyful and practical (hi, Samuel here from Trips Recipes), I’m excited to share this easy, lighter alternative that’ll have your kitchen smelling like a dream and your taste buds doing a little happy dance.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Rice Paper Dumplings
- No deep fryer necessary — skip the oily mess without sacrificing crispiness.
- Naturally gluten-free thanks to the simple rice paper wrapper.
- Customizable fillings to suit every craving — vegetarian, meat-lovers, or somewhere in between.
- Crispy outside, juicy inside perfection every single time.
These little pockets of joy are a hit with kids, adults, picky eaters, and “what’s-for-dinner” skeptics alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Rice paper sheets (available at most grocery stores or Asian markets)
- Your choice of protein (ground chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even shredded rotisserie chicken)
- Shredded veggies like carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, and bean sprouts
- Garlic and ginger for a flavor boost
- Soy sauce or gluten-free tamari for seasoning
- A splash of sesame oil for that nutty aroma
- Olive oil spray (to help them bake up golden and crisp)
Pro Tip: Want a shortcut? Use leftover stir-fry or cooked meats from your fridge. Waste not, want not!
How to Make Baked Rice Paper Dumplings
Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté your protein and vegetables with minced garlic and grated ginger. Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari and a drizzle of sesame oil. Cook until the filling is aromatic and cooked through. Let it cool slightly.
Soften the Rice Paper:
Dip one rice paper sheet into a shallow bowl of warm water for about 5 seconds. Lay it flat on a damp kitchen towel or cutting board.
Fill and Wrap:
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the softened sheet. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly like a mini burrito.
Bake:
Arrange the wrapped dumplings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, or until the dumplings are crisp and golden brown.
Optional: Flip halfway through baking for extra crunch!
Delicious Dipping Sauces to Pair
Because dumplings without dip are like cookies without milk:
- Sweet chili sauce for a sweet-spicy kick
- Peanut hoisin sauce for a rich, nutty dip
- Spicy sriracha mayo for those who love a fiery bite
Whip up one or try them all — no judgment here!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t oversoak the rice paper. It gets soft very quickly and can tear if left too long.
- Keep fillings dry. Wet fillings lead to soggy dumplings, and nobody wants that.
- Use parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures a flawless, easy release after baking.
- Let them rest. Give the dumplings a couple of minutes to cool after baking. This lets them crisp up even more!
Personal Touch: Why I Love These
The first time I made baked rice paper dumplings, I was skeptical. Would they really get crispy without frying? Spoiler alert: they did — and then some! Now they’re my go-to snack when friends pop over, or when I just want something crunchy and delicious without feeling weighed down. Plus, they’re a great make-ahead option for parties and quick lunches.
Looking for more Rice Paper Recipes? Check out our 21 Irresistible Rice Paper Recipes Ideas You’ll Crave All Week for more ideas that will rock your kitchen.
You can also check the following similar recipes:
- recipe using rice paper
- What to make with rice paper
- fried rice paper rolls
- chicken rice paper wraps recipe
FAQs About Baked Rice Paper Dumplings
Can you bake rice paper rolls?
Yes, absolutely! Baking rice paper rolls is a fantastic way to achieve a crisp, golden texture without the hassle of deep-frying. It’s quicker, cleaner, and much healthier — perfect for busy weeknights.
Can dumplings be made with rice paper?
Definitely! Rice paper makes an excellent gluten-free substitute for traditional dumpling wrappers. It’s light, easy to work with, and crisps up beautifully when baked or lightly pan-fried.
Can you use rice paper instead of dumpling wrappers?
Yes! Rice paper is a wonderful alternative to standard dumpling wrappers, especially for those avoiding gluten. Just remember, it’s thinner and softer, so handle gently and soak only briefly.
Are rice paper dumplings healthier?
Rice paper dumplings are generally healthier, particularly when baked. They’re lower in calories, fat, and processed ingredients compared to traditional dumplings made with wheat-based wrappers and deep-fried in oil.
Final Thoughts
Baked Rice Paper Dumplings are the perfect marriage of crispy texture and savory fillings without any of the heavy guilt that deep-fried foods often bring. They’re easy to customize, quick to whip up, and fit beautifully into gluten-free, dairy-free, or simply “better-for-you” lifestyles.
Whether you’re preparing them for a quick snack, a family dinner, or a fancy appetizer for guests, these dumplings will always leave an impression. Trust me — once you make them, they’ll become a permanent resident in your recipe rotation!
Ready to give them a try? Roll up your sleeves and roll up some dumplings. Happy baking!