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Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Spicy Honey
Ben Carraoli

Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Spicy Honey Recipe

I have to tell you, making these fried goat cheese balls with spicy honey was such a fun experience! From rolling the creamy cheese into perfect little spheres to frying them until golden and crunchy, every step was a joy. I love how a simple drizzle of honey transforms them into a decadent treat
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Goat cheese 8 oz: Soft, plain goat cheese works best; herbed varieties are fine too. Pro tip: fresh cheese gives the creamiest inside.
  • All-purpose flour ½ cup: Helps the coating stick perfectly.
  • Eggs 2, beaten: Binds the breadcrumbs to the cheese balls for extra crunch.
  • Panko breadcrumbs 1 cup: Offers a crispier, airy texture than regular breadcrumbs.
  • Dried rosemary 1 tsp and sage (1 tsp): Add aromatic flavor to the coating.
  • Vegetable oil for frying: Use high-smoke-point oil like avocado for perfect frying.
  • Flaky sea salt to taste: Enhances flavor after frying.
  • Honey 2–3 tbsp: Drizzle on top for a sweet and slightly spicy kick.

Method
 

  1. Start by rolling the goat cheese into small balls, roughly the size of a teaspoon. I found chilling them for a few minutes made handling easier. You’ll end up with about 20–25 balls.
  2. In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with rosemary and sage. This keeps everything organized and makes coating faster.
  3. Dip each cheese ball in flour first, then egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. I make sure every inch is covered for maximum crunch.
  4. Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20–60 minutes. Freezing keeps them firm so they don’t melt too quickly in hot oil.
  5. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F and fry in small batches, about 5 at a time, for 30 seconds or until golden. Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with flaky salt, and drizzle honey just before serving.

Notes

  • I always freeze the balls before frying to prevent them from losing shape.
  • Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even crisping.
  • Coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs; rushing this step results in a soggy exterior.
  • Drizzle honey right before serving so the coating stays crunchy.
  • Make extra — these go fast, and freezing leftovers is a lifesaver.