Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls (Printable Page)

# What You 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)

# How to Make It:

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.

# Helpful Tips:

01 - Delicious served with honey, fig jam, or balsamic glaze
02 - Great on salads or charcuterie boards
03 - You can prepare and freeze breaded balls in advance, then fry or air fry from frozen (add 1-2 minutes)