Dessert

Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey Recipe

Byreem everly January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey are a delightful appetizer that combines creamy goat cheese with a crunchy coating and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for parties or a special snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests.

A white scalloped plate holds about sixteen small, round, golden-brown fried balls with a crispy texture. They are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and small red flakes, adding contrast and color. A light, shiny drizzle of honey is spread unevenly on the plate and over some balls. Near the bottom right side of the plate, a wooden honey dipper rests on the honey puddle, its grooved surface catching the light. The scene is set on a white marbled texture that adds a clean, bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/3 cup all purpose flour
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 large egg
1/2 tsp kosher salt
2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 (11 oz) log soft goat cheese
2 cups oil (grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil) for frying
1 Tbsp honey (for garnish)
2 Tbsp minced fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons water. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Roll the goat cheese into 24 balls, each about 1 tablespoon in size. Coat each ball first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally roll in the panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Place the coated balls on a tray and freeze for 20 minutes until firm.
Step 3: Heat the oil in a deep saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Fry the goat cheese poppers in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Arrange the poppers on a platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with minced fresh chives. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the flour mixture before coating.
Swap panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for an even crunchier texture.
Try drizzling with a flavored honey, such as lavender or chili honey, for a unique twist.
If you prefer a baked version, bake the coated cheese balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until golden.

Storage

These goat cheese poppers are best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

A white scalloped plate holds around eighteen small, round golden-brown fried balls evenly spaced in three rows, each ball topped with small green chopped herbs. Light amber honey is drizzled underneath and around the balls on the plate, with a wooden honey dipper resting on the plate’s edge partly surrounded by honey. The plate sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat and freeze the goat cheese balls up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the freezer and fry them directly from frozen for best results.

What is the best oil to use for frying?

Use oils with a high smoke point like grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil to ensure the poppers fry evenly without burning.

reem everly