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
Scale
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
