Save to Pinterest A fun and festive appetizer featuring tangy pickles wrapped in melted cheese and a crispy coating, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a hit at my family parties every year, making appetizer time extra special.
Ingredients
- Main: 12 small dill pickles (cornichons or mini gherkins), patted dry; 6 slices cheddar cheese (or any meltable cheese), halved
- Breading: ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp black pepper
- For Frying: Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 2:
- Wrap each pickle tightly with a half slice of cheese.
- Step 3:
- In three shallow bowls, place flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper in the third.
- Step 4:
- Dip each cheese-wrapped pickle first in flour, then in egg, then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Step 5:
- Place coated pickles on a parchment-lined tray. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to help set the coating.
- Step 6:
- In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 7:
- Fry pickles in batches for 23 minutes each, turning to ensure even crispiness, until golden brown.
- Step 8:
- Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly before serving.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer always brings smiles at our holiday table; the kids love them too.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, paper towels, baking tray, saucepan or deep skillet, slotted spoon or tongs, thermometer recommended for oil temperature
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheese, eggs), Gluten (flour, breadcrumbs use gluten-free alternatives if needed). Always check product labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 120, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 8 g, Protein 4 g
Save to Pinterest Serve these crispy cheese-wrapped pickle ornaments fresh for the best crunch and flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the coating sticks well?
Dry the pickles thoroughly and wrap them tightly in cheese. Then, dip sequentially in flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs to create a firm, even coating.
- → Can different cheeses be used?
Yes, meltable cheeses such as pepper jack, Swiss, or mozzarella can be substituted for cheddar to vary the flavor profile.
- → What frying oil is best?
Vegetable oil with a high smoke point works well, allowing the pickles to fry evenly and develop a golden, crispy crust.
- → Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, after coating, freeze the pickles and fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the frying time for perfect results.
- → How can I add a spicy kick?
Incorporate cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture to introduce a subtle heat that complements the tangy and cheesy flavors.