Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls (Printable Version)

Creamy, tangy goat cheese coated in a golden, crunchy crust — perfect as a party appetizer or elegant salad topper.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Cheese Balls

01 - 200g goat cheese, softened
02 - 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
03 - ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)

→ For Breading

04 - 60g all-purpose flour
05 - 1 large egg, beaten
06 - 80g panko breadcrumbs
07 - Salt and black pepper to taste
08 - Oil for frying or cooking spray (for air fryer)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a bowl, mix goat cheese with cream cheese and herbs, if using.
02 - Scoop into 2.5cm (1-inch) balls and roll until smooth. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper. Chill in the freezer for 20 minutes.
03 - Arrange three separate bowls with flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs.
04 - Roll chilled cheese balls in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with panko. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
05 - Heat oil in a deep pan to 175°C (350°F). Fry cheese balls in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
06 - Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Spray balls lightly with cooking spray and air fry for 7-8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crisp and golden.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour with minimal active time
  • Perfect make-ahead appetizer for entertaining
  • Works as both an elegant starter or casual snack
  • Can be lightened up using the air fryer method
  • Versatile serving options from salad topper to charcuterie board addition
02 -
  • Best served immediately while the contrast between melty interior and crisp exterior is at its peak
  • Can be assembled hours ahead and fried just before serving
  • Excellent source of calcium and protein
  • Works beautifully with almost any dipping sauce from sweet to savory
03 -
  • Allow cheese balls to rest for 2-3 minutes after frying before serving to prevent burning mouths on the molten centers
  • If making the air fryer version spray with oil again halfway through cooking for the most golden exterior
  • For a gluten free version substitute rice flour and gluten free panko breadcrumbs with excellent results
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