Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Hot Honey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 1 review

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings

Description

These crispy fried goat cheese balls feature creamy goat cheese encased in a crunchy double breadcrumb coating, perfectly fried to a golden brown. They make a delightful appetizer or snack and can be served with a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey for an irresistible flavor contrast. The recipe also offers options to air fry or bake the balls for a healthier twist.

Ingredients

Goat Cheese Balls

  • 8 oz goat cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Frying

  • Refined coconut oil, for frying (about 1 inch depth in pot)

For Serving

  • Hot honey, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Form the cheese balls: Divide the 8 ounces of goat cheese into 16 portions, each approximately 1/2 ounce. Roll each portion into smooth balls, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze these balls completely for about 1 hour to firm up.
  2. Prepare the breading station: Set out three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Season each with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Bread the cheese balls: Once the goat cheese balls are frozen, coat each one by dredging in flour and tapping off excess. Dip them in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then roll in panko breadcrumbs. Compress the breadcrumbs by rolling gently in your hands. For a thicker coating, dip them again in the beaten eggs and roll once more in breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with all balls, then freeze completely for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  4. Heat the oil: When ready to cook, preheat about 1 inch of refined coconut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, heating until it reaches 360°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). If the oil is solid, warm it briefly in the microwave to liquefy before heating.
  5. Fry the balls: Fry 5 to 6 goat cheese balls at a time for 1 1/2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Flip carefully to ensure even frying. Drain the fried balls on a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with flaky salt immediately.
  6. Serve: After frying all the balls, serve them warm with a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy finish.

Notes

  • Freezing the cheese balls before breading and frying is crucial to prevent them from melting too quickly during cooking.
  • If preferred, you can bake or air fry the balls instead of deep frying for a healthier version.
  • Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 360°F to achieve the perfect golden crust without absorbing excess oil.
  • Hot honey adds a lovely contrast, but you can substitute with your favorite dipping sauce.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/fried-goat-cheese-balls-with-hot-honey-recipe/