Description
Crispy fried goat cheese balls served warm with a sweet and spicy sage-infused honey drizzle, perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Balls
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Spicy Sage Honey
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 4–5 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Form and Chill Cheese Balls: Scoop small portions, approximately 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm to handle.
- Make Spicy Sage Honey: While the cheese balls chill, heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Add red pepper flakes and finely chopped sage. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat and let steep to infuse flavors. Set aside.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three separate bowls with flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs for coating the cheese balls.
- Bread the Cheese Balls: Roll each chilled cheese ball first in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Return the breaded balls to the freezer for an additional 10 minutes to help them hold shape during frying.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Pour vegetable oil about 2 inches deep into a saucepan or deep skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese balls in batches for 1–2 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure an even golden brown crust.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm drizzled generously with the spicy sage honey.
Notes
- You can prepare the cheese balls and spicy honey ahead of time and freeze them; fry just before serving for best results.
- These fried goat cheese balls pair beautifully with a glass of wine or as part of a holiday cheese board assortment.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes in the honey to control spiciness according to your preference.
