Description
Crispy on the outside, tangy and creamy on the inside, and finished with a sweet drizzle of golden honey—these goat cheese balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Quick to make and irresistibly delicious, they combine warm, crunchy coating with cool, creamy goat cheese and a touch of honey.
Ingredients
- 10 oz soft goat cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 3–4 tbsp honey, for drizzling
- Optional: chopped fresh thyme or rosemary
- Optional: crushed nuts (walnuts or pistachios)
- Optional: chili flakes
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine goat cheese and cream cheese. Add salt and pepper. Mash together until smooth and blended.
- Portion out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture per ball. Roll gently between your palms to form smooth spheres. Place on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment.
- Chill the formed balls in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each ball in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then roll in panko. For extra crunch, dip back into egg and panko for a double layer.
- Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to about 1/2 inch depth. Heat over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking (about 350°F).
- Add cheese balls in batches, turning gently with tongs. Fry until golden brown and crispy—about 1-2 minutes per side. Do not crowd the pan.
- Transfer fried balls to a plate lined with paper towels. Let cool for 1-2 minutes.
- Arrange goat cheese balls on a platter. Drizzle generously with honey and add optional garnishes.
Notes
Chill cheese balls well before frying to prevent them from falling apart. Double-coat in egg and panko for extra crunch. Use a candy thermometer to keep oil at 350°F. For gluten-free, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Balls can be baked at 400°F for 12-15 minutes if preferred. Serve warm for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball (about 25g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Protein: 3
Keywords: goat cheese balls, crispy cheese appetizer, party snacks, honey drizzle, fried cheese balls, vegetarian appetizer, easy party food