Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey Recipe
These Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey are delightful bite-sized appetizers featuring soft goat cheese balls coated in a crunchy panko crust, fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with sweet honey and garnished with fresh chives. Perfect for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 poppers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Coating
- 1/3 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 Tbsp water
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
Main Ingredient
- 1 (11 oz) log soft goat cheese
For Frying
- 2 cups grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil
For Garnish
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp minced fresh chives
Instructions
- Prepare the Coatings: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of water until well combined. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Form Goat Cheese Balls: Roll the goat cheese into 24 small balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Make sure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Coat the Balls: Roll each goat cheese ball first in the flour mixture to lightly coat, then dip into the egg wash, and finally roll in the panko breadcrumbs ensuring an even, thorough coating on all sides.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Place the coated balls on a tray and freeze for 20 minutes or until firm to help maintain shape during frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep saucepan, heat your chosen oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry Goat Cheese Poppers: Fry the goat cheese balls in batches, carefully placing them in the hot oil and cooking for 1 to 2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain Excess Oil: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the poppers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Garnish and Serve: Arrange the crispy goat cheese poppers on a serving platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle minced fresh chives on top. Serve immediately while warm and crisp.
Notes
- Freezing the coated goat cheese balls before frying helps prevent them from melting and losing shape.
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil for frying.
- You can substitute fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for chives as a garnish for variation.
- Serve these poppers immediately for the best texture; they are best eaten warm.
- Ensure oil temperature stays consistent for even frying and to avoid greasy poppers.
Keywords: goat cheese poppers, crispy appetizer, fried goat cheese, honey drizzle, party snacks, easy appetizers, crunchy goat cheese balls
