... Print

Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Honey Drizzle

Close-up of crispy, golden-brown goat cheese balls stacked on a white plate, generously drizzled with amber honey.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make these crispy fried goat cheese balls for an easy, impressive appetizer. They are creamy inside, crunchy outside, and pair well with a sweet honey drizzle.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz soft goat cheese, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (optional, for flavor variation)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/4 cup honey, for drizzling
  • Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature goat cheese, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Roll the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 18 to 20 balls. Place them on a parchment-lined plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  3. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. Place the beaten eggs in the second dish. Mix the panko breadcrumbs and chopped pecans (if using) in the third dish.
  4. Working with one chilled cheese ball at a time, dredge it lightly in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere completely. Return the coated balls to the plate and chill for another 15 minutes.
  5. Prepare for frying: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  6. Carefully lower 4 to 5 cheese balls into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is golden brown and crispy. The cheese inside will soften but should not fully melt out.
  7. Remove the fried balls with the slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt immediately.
  8. 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 in a single layer for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
  9. Arrange the warm goat cheese balls on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with honey just before serving.

Notes

  • For make-ahead preparation, coat the cheese balls completely and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for 1 hour until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1 to 2 minutes to the cooking time.
  • If you are planning your week, these are great make ahead appetizers that save time when hosting.
  • For a different flavor profile, substitute the chives with dried thyme or finely chopped rosemary.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/crispy-fried-goat-cheese-balls-with-honey/