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Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Honey Drizzle

Close-up of crispy fried goat cheese balls, one cut open revealing creamy white cheese, drizzled with honey.
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Make these crispy fried goat cheese balls for an easy, impressive appetizer. They are creamy inside, crunchy outside, and perfect for parties or holidays.

Ingredients

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  • 8 oz soft goat cheese, chilled
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
  • 1/4 cup honey, for drizzling
  • Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Instructions

  1. Combine the panko breadcrumbs, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
  2. In a separate shallow dish, place the flour. In a third dish, place the beaten eggs.
  3. Take the chilled goat cheese and form it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 12 to 15 balls. Work quickly so the cheese stays cold.
  4. Dredge each cheese ball first in the flour, shaking off excess.
  5. Dip the floured ball into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
  6. Roll the cheese ball thoroughly in the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres completely. Place coated balls on a parchment-lined plate.
  7. Chill the coated cheese balls for at least 30 minutes to help the coating set. (This step is important for preventing leaks during frying.)
  8. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  9. Carefully place 3 or 4 cheese balls into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot.
  10. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  11. Remove the balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  12. Serve immediately while warm, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with flaky sea salt.

Notes

  • For an air fryer option, spray the coated cheese balls lightly with cooking spray. Cook in a single layer at 380°F (195°C) for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
  • You can make these ahead by coating them completely and freezing them on a tray for 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1 minute to the frying time.
  • For a festive variation, mix finely chopped dried cranberries and toasted pecans into the panko coating mixture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/goat-cheese-balls-recipe-fried-air-fryer/