Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Honey Drizzle Recipe
Introduction
These fried goat cheese balls are a delightful appetizer, crispy on the outside and creamy inside. Drizzled with honey, they balance savory and sweet perfectly, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces garlic herb goat cheese (divided into 24 pieces)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg (whisked)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons honey (for drizzling)
- Canola oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Step 1: In three separate small bowls, combine the flour with salt, whisk the egg, and place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Step 2: Cut the goat cheese log into 24 equal pieces and roll each into a small ball. Coat each ball by rolling first in the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the panko crumbs. Repeat the coating one more time for a thicker crust.
- Step 3: Freeze the coated cheese balls for 20 minutes until firm. This step is essential to prevent them from falling apart during frying.
- Step 4: Heat canola oil in a deep saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Step 5: Fry the goat cheese balls in batches of 4 to 5 for 1 to 2 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Step 6: Transfer the fried cheese balls to a serving platter and drizzle with honey. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter option, cook the goat cheese balls in an air fryer at 390°F for 6-8 minutes, spraying them lightly with cooking spray before cooking.
- Try using flavored goat cheese such as chive or pepper to add extra taste.
- If you want a spicier touch, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Storage
Fried goat cheese balls are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispness. Avoid microwaving, as this will soften the coating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the goat cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and coat the balls ahead, then freeze them for up to a week before frying. Just fry directly from frozen.
What can I serve with fried goat cheese balls?
They pair well with fresh salads, crusty bread, or as a unique addition to a charcuterie board. The honey drizzle adds a sweet contrast that complements many dishes.
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Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Honey Drizzle Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes including freezing time
- Yield: Serves 6 (24 balls, approximately 4 per person) 1x
Description
These Fried Goat Cheese Balls are a deliciously crispy and creamy appetizer, featuring herb-infused goat cheese coated in a crunchy panko crust and finished with a drizzle of sweet honey. Perfect for party snacks or a savory treat, they can be cooked traditionally by deep frying or with a healthier alternative using an air fryer.
Ingredients
Cheese Balls
- 8 ounces garlic herb goat cheese (divided into 24 pieces or your favorite goat cheese)
Breading
- ⅓ cup all purpose flour
- 1 large egg (whisked)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
For Cooking and Serving
- Canola oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons honey (for drizzling after cooking)
- Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil (for air fryer method, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Breading Stations: Combine the flour and kosher salt in one small bowl. Whisk the egg in a separate bowl. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. This staging will ensure you coat the cheese balls evenly.
- Form Cheese Balls: Cut the garlic herb goat cheese log into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball shape gently but firmly to avoid cracking.
- Coat Cheese Balls: Roll each ball first in the flour mixture to lightly coat. Then dip into the whisked egg, and roll in the panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy outer layer. For extra crispiness and better adhesion, repeat the egg and panko coating once more on each ball.
- Freeze for Firmness: Place the coated cheese balls on a tray and freeze them for at least 20 minutes. This is essential to help them hold their shape and prevent the cheese from melting out during cooking.
- Deep Fry Method – Heat Oil: In a deep saucepan or fryer, heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat to ensure proper frying temperature.
- Deep Fry Cheese Balls: Fry the cheese balls in batches of 4-5 at a time for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they develop a golden brown and crisp exterior. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain the balls on paper towels.
- Serve with Honey: Arrange the fried goat cheese balls on a serving platter and immediately drizzle with honey for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
- Air Fryer Method – Prepare Basket: Arrange the frozen coated cheese balls evenly in your air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation.
- Apply Oil Spray: Lightly spray the balls with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil to enhance crispiness during air frying.
- Air Fry Cheese Balls: Cook at 390°F (199°C) for 6 to 8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and serve immediately drizzled with honey.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese balls before cooking is crucial for maintaining shape and preventing cheese leakage.
- Using panko breadcrumbs provides a lighter, crispier coating than traditional breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute kosher salt with sea salt if preferred.
- For a different flavor profile, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breading.
- If deep frying, maintain the oil temperature carefully to avoid greasy or undercooked balls.
- Air frying is a healthier alternative that still yields a perfectly crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes deep frying / 8 minutes air frying
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: fried goat cheese balls, goat cheese appetizer, crispy goat cheese, party snacks, air fryer goat cheese, deep fried cheese balls
