Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls are a delightful appetizer that combines creamy, tangy goat cheese with a crunchy golden crust. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack, these bite-sized treats are quick to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the goat cheese into small, bite-sized balls.
- Step 2: Beat the eggs in a bowl to create an egg wash.
- Step 3: Roll each goat cheese ball in the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Step 5: Fry the coated goat cheese balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Step 6: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, mix herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumbs before coating.
- Serve with a drizzle of honey or a side of fruit preserves for a sweet contrast.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture.
Storage
Store fried goat cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the goat cheese balls in advance?
Yes, you can bread the goat cheese balls ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before frying. This helps the coating stick better.
What can I use if I don’t have goat cheese?
You can substitute with cream cheese or ricotta, but the flavor will be milder and texture slightly different.
PrintCrispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls Recipe
Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls are a delightful appetizer featuring creamy goat cheese encased in a crunchy breadcrumb coating, fried to a perfect golden brown. These bite-sized treats offer a creamy, tangy interior contrasted by a crisp exterior, making them an irresistible snack or party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 cheese balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces goat cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: herbs or spices for breadcrumb seasoning (e.g., parsley, garlic powder)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese balls: Using your hands, form the goat cheese into small, bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up, which helps maintain shape during frying.
- Set up breading stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a separate shallow dish, pour the breadcrumbs, and if desired, mix in herbs or spices for added flavor.
- Bread the goat cheese balls: Roll each chilled goat cheese ball first in the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps a second time. Place the breaded balls back on a tray and refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes to set the coating.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the cheese balls partially (about 1-2 inches), and heat over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). A thermometer is ideal for accuracy; otherwise, test by dropping a breadcrumb—if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
- Fry the cheese balls: Carefully add the cheese balls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning as needed, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve immediately: These goat cheese balls are best enjoyed hot and fresh, perhaps accompanied by a dipping sauce like honey, fig jam, or a tangy vinaigrette for an added touch of flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the cheese balls before and after breading helps maintain their shape during frying.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for best texture, or panko for an extra crunchy crust.
- Monitor oil temperature closely to avoid burning or undercooking the balls.
- Serve immediately after frying to enjoy the contrast of warm, creamy inside with crispy exterior.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before frying; fry directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time slightly.
Keywords: fried goat cheese balls, appetizer, crispy cheese balls, goat cheese appetizer, party snacks
