Crispy Cheese Balls are a snack that can light up any gathering. I first discovered this recipe when I was trying to find something simple, yet impressive, to bring to a family party. The idea of crispy, golden-brown cheese balls filled with melty cheese seemed too good to pass up, and it didn’t disappoint. Crispy Cheese Balls became a hit instantly, and since then, they’ve become my go-to snack for almost every event. What’s even better is how easy they are to prepare, with only a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
The Perfect Texture
What makes Crispy Cheese Balls so irresistible is the perfect combination of textures. The outside is crisp and crunchy, while the inside is soft and gooey, with the warm cheese just oozing out when you take a bite. It’s this contrast that makes them stand out as a perfect finger food. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge, ready to fry when needed, which is a huge time-saver. The crispy coating is the key, made from breadcrumbs and seasoned just right, so each bite is bursting with flavor.
Cheese Lovers’ Dream
As a cheese lover, Crispy Cheese Balls are my dream come true. I use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the filling, creating a creamy, slightly tangy center. The cheese holds together nicely, not too runny, so you can enjoy each ball without worrying about the filling falling out. To elevate the flavors, I add a touch of garlic powder and a hint of cayenne pepper, giving the snack a little kick without overpowering the richness of the cheese.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Crispy Cheese Balls are incredibly versatile, and you can serve them with a variety of dips to match different tastes. Whether it’s a spicy ranch, marinara, or even a sweet chili sauce, they are sure to pair perfectly. You can also experiment with the cheese inside, trying different types like pepper jack for a spicier version or gouda for a richer, smoky flavor. Whatever you choose, Crispy Cheese Balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next party or family gathering.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Crispy Cheese Balls
- Oil Temperature is Key: The oil should be heated to 375°F (190°C). If it’s too cool, the fritters will absorb more oil and become soggy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check.
- Use a Slotted Spoon: When removing the fritters from the oil, always use a slotted spoon to let excess oil drain off. This will help maintain their crisp texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the fritters in batches. If you add too many at once, the temperature of the oil will drop, resulting in greasy fritters.
- Adjust for Sweetness: You can control how sweet or savory your fritters are by adjusting the amount of sugar in the batter. For a more savory fritter, reduce the sugar or omit it entirely.
- Herb & Spice Variations: Experiment with different flavor additions. Adding a pinch of garlic powder, fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), or chili flakes can give the fritters extra depth and variety.
- Use the Right Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute to maintain the texture.
- Perfect Serving Temperature: Serve these fritters hot and fresh for the best crispy texture. If you need to keep them warm, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F) while you fry the remaining fritters.
- Make Ahead & Freezing: You can make these fritters in advance and freeze them. Once fried and cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Jam Pairings: These cheese fritters go wonderfully with various jams—try raspberry, strawberry, or apricot for a sweet contrast, or even a spicy pepper jelly for a kick.
Crispy Cheese Balls
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes265
kcal25
minutesGet ready to elevate your snack game with these irresistible crispy cheese fritters! Packed with gooey cheese and a perfectly golden exterior, this recipe is a must-try for any food enthusiast. Simple to make yet bursting with flavor, these fritters are perfect for festive gatherings or a delicious treat anytime. Let your taste buds rejoice with every bite of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
1/3 cup well-drained cottage cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup half-and-half
- Dry Ingredients
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/3 teaspoon ground nutmeg
A pinch of salt
- For Frying
1 cup vegetable oil or as needed
- For Serving
1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
- Alternative Ingredients:
Cottage Cheese Replacement: Use ricotta cheese or paneer for a similar texture and flavor.
Half-and-Half Substitute: Replace with milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk to make it dairy-free.
All-Purpose Flour Alternative: Swap with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version.
Vegetable Oil Substitute: Use canola oil or another neutral oil for frying.
White Sugar Replacement: Substitute with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Ground Nutmeg Alternative: Omit or replace with cinnamon for a different spice flavor.
Egg Substitute: Use a flax egg 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water for a vegan alternative.
Confectioners’ Sugar Replacement: Swap with a mixture of granulated sugar and cornstarch if necessary.
Directions
- Prepare the Batter – In a mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the drained cottage cheese with the egg until fully blended. Incorporate the half-and-half gradually, ensuring a smooth mixture. *(Approx. 5 minutes)*
- Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to form a thick batter. *(Approx. 5 minutes)*
- Heat the Oil – Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot, reaching a depth of about 2 inches. Using an instant read thermometer, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for frying. *(Approx. 5 minutes)*
- Fry the Fritters – Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil, spacing them to avoid overcrowding. Fry each fritter until they achieve a golden brown hue on all sides, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per fritter. *(Approx. 10 minutes)*
- Drain and Dust – Once fried, remove the fritters using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil. While still warm, lightly dust the fritters with confectioners’ sugar for a sweet finish.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve the cheese fritters immediately while hot, optionally accompanied by your favorite jam or dipping sauce. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- instant read thermometer
Notes
- To ensure your cheese fritters turn out perfectly crispy, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If the oil is too cool, the fritters may absorb excess oil and become greasy. For an extra flavor boost, you can add chopped herbs or spices to the batter. These fritters pair wonderfully with a variety of dips such as marinara sauce, honey mustard, or even spicy sriracha. If you prefer a sweeter treat, serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup. To keep your fritters warm and crispy, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven while you finish frying the rest. These versatile fritters also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prepping or enjoying later.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 265kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Vitamin A: 400IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Crispy Cheese Balls
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or paneer for a similar texture. Just make sure the cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
How can I make these fritters dairy-free or vegan?
Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg, and replace the cottage cheese with a dairy-free cheese or tofu. Use almond milk in place of half-and-half.
What if I don’t have a deep fryer or Dutch oven?
You can use a large, deep skillet or pan to fry the fritters. Just make sure to monitor the oil temperature carefully to ensure even frying.
Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
While baking is an option, frying will give them a much crispier texture. If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or toaster oven to restore some of their crispness. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
