Irresistible bite-sized goat cheese balls are coated with a crunchy panko crust and fried to crispy perfection. Serve this easy appetizer at your next party or family dinner.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper.
Slice the goat cheese into 12 even slices.
Roll the goat cheese slices between the palms of your hands to form balls and place 1-inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Place the sheet into the freezer and chill the goat cheese balls for a minimum of 20 minutes.
When the goat cheese balls have chilled and firmed up but aren’t completely frozen, remove them from the freezer.
While the goat cheese is chilling prepare your dredging station with 3 bowls. In a small bowl, beat the eggs.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the panko bread crumbs to a third bowl.
Working one by one, dip the goat cheese balls into the beaten egg, then place them into the flour mixture, turning to coat on all sides.
Dip them back into the egg, then roll them in the panko until evenly coated and place them back onto the baking sheet.
Place the coated goat cheese balls back into the freezer for an additional 10-20 minutes to firm up again.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large pot on the stove over medium to medium-high heat.
Use a frying thermometer or candy thermometer to measure the temperature of the oil. When it has reached 350 degrees F, gently lower one of the coated goat cheese balls into the oil using a slotted spoon, a spider or pair of tongs.
Allow the goat cheese to cook for about 1-2 minutes, then flip it over and continue frying on the other side until evenly browned on all sides.
Immediately remove the goat cheese balls from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Continue repeating the frying process with 1-3 goat cheese balls at a time, until all have been fried, then turn the heat off the stove.
Serve the fried goat cheese balls with honey and chopped pecans, if desired.
Notes
These goat cheese balls are about 1.5 inches in diameter. Increase the servings by slicing the goat cheese log into 24 even slices, if preferred.
Be careful when frying! The oil will splatter and can cause injury, so be sure to lower the goat cheese balls into the oil and remove them with care. To ensure safety, and avoid burning the goat cheese balls, keep an eye on them at all times while cooking.
Freezing the goat cheese before and after coating ensures that the cheese will not ooze out while frying.
Goat cheese balls taste best when served the same day they’re made. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.