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Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Honey Drizzle

A stack of golden-brown, crispy fried goat cheese balls, one broken open to show the creamy interior, drizzled with honey.
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Make these crispy fried goat cheese balls for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer. They are crunchy outside, creamy inside, and perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1/4 cup honey, for drizzling
  • Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Instructions

  1. Combine the flour, salt, and pepper in one shallow dish.
  2. Whisk the eggs in a second shallow dish.
  3. Mix the panko breadcrumbs and dried thyme in a third shallow dish.
  4. Take the chilled goat cheese and roll it into small, uniform balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 18 to 20 balls.
  5. Dredge each cheese ball first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  6. Dip the floured ball into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
  7. Roll the ball thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere completely.
  8. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill for at least 30 minutes. This step helps them hold their shape during frying.
  9. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Carefully place a few cheese balls into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan.
  11. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  12. Remove the balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  13. If you prefer the air fryer method, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the coated balls with cooking spray and air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
  14. Arrange the warm cheese balls on a serving platter.
  15. Drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.

Notes

  • You can make these ahead by coating the balls and storing them, uncooked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry or air fry just before serving.
  • For a festive variation, mix 1 tablespoon of finely chopped dried cranberries into the panko breadcrumb mixture.
  • Serve these savory and sweet bites alongside crackers or sliced baguette pieces.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/goat-cheese-balls-recipe-easy-appetizer/