This Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe is an absolute showstopper that will have your guests raving long after the last bite. Imagine creamy, tangy goat cheese wrapped around a surprise center of tart dried cherries and crunchy pecans, all enrobed in a golden, crispy panko crust that gives way to a luscious, melty interior. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that come together in bite-sized perfection. Whether you’re serving it as an elegant appetizer or a fun party snack, this recipe is guaranteed to delight and impress with every crunchy, gooey mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients; each one plays an essential role in creating the delightful taste, texture, and beautiful appearance of the Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe. From the creamy goat cheese to the crunchy panko and the tart cherries, these components work harmoniously to deliver a truly unforgettable dish.
- 12 ounces goat cheese (3 small packages): The creamy and tangy base that melts beautifully inside every ball.
- 1/3 cup flour: Creates a light coating that helps the egg and panko stick perfectly.
- Egg white from one egg: Acts as a glue to hold the panko crust in place and add crispiness.
- 1/2 tablespoon sea salt: Used both in the breading and for seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides that irresistible crunch that contrasts with the gooey cheese.
- 2 cups canola oil: The frying medium that crisps the outside without overpowering the delicate filling.
- 1/2 cup dried tart cherries: Adds a pop of sweetness and tartness that complements the goat cheese.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Brings a satisfying nutty crunch and depth of flavor inside the filling.
- Pomegranate balsamic vinegar (optional): An elegant drizzle to elevate the finished dish with a tangy sweetness.
How to Make Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station
Start by setting up three separate bowls: one with the flour, another with the egg white mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, and a third combining the panko bread crumbs with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. This assembly line will make the coating process smooth and efficient, ensuring each ball is perfectly breaded and ready for frying.
Step 2: Shape and Fill the Goat Cheese Balls
Roll the goat cheese into 24 even tablespoon-sized balls. As you form each one, tuck in a few dried cherries and chopped pecans to create a delightful surprise inside. This little addition is the heart of the Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe, blending creamy, sweet, and crunchy sensations all at once.
Step 3: Chill for Firmness
Pop the goat cheese balls into the fridge for about an hour, or if you’re short on time, the freezer for 20 minutes works wonders to firm them up. This step is crucial to keeping the balls intact during frying so you get a perfect golden crust without losing that delicious filling.
Step 4: Bread the Cheese Balls
Once chilled, coat each ball in the flour, making sure it’s fully covered. Then dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring an even layer so the panko sticks well. Finally, roll each ball generously in the panko mixture—don’t be shy here! The panko delivers that signature crunch when fried, so a good coating is key.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Pour canola oil into a deep saucepan and heat it to 350°F over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to crisp the panko quickly but not so hot that it burns or causes splatter. Using a deep pan is a smart move to keep your kitchen safe and clean during frying.
Step 6: Fry the Goat Cheese Balls
Fry the balls in batches, adding two or three at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook them for about 30 seconds, just until the panko turns a beautiful golden brown and crisps up. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them and place the balls on a wire rack or paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve the Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe warm, optionally drizzled with a bit of pomegranate balsamic vinegar. The tanginess perfectly complements the rich, crunchy, tart, and nutty flavors, making it an irresistible delight with every bite.
How to Serve Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add a lovely aromatic touch and a burst of green color. A little sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavor contrast beautifully. For a sophisticated twist, a drizzle of honey or pomegranate balsamic vinegar adds a delicate sweet-tart finish that takes these bites to the next level.
Side Dishes
These fried goat cheese balls are perfect as an appetizer, so light, crisp salads with citrusy vinaigrettes pair wonderfully. Consider serving alongside a fresh baby arugula salad with toasted nuts, or a bowl of mixed berries to complement the cherries inside the balls. They also shine when accompanied by crusty artisan bread or rustic crackers for a well-rounded presentation.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, present these beauties on a wooden board with colorful edible flowers to make them truly pop. You can also offer a trio of dipping sauces like a tangy mustard, sweet fig jam, and a spicy aioli to let guests customize their bites. Serving them in individual mini bowls or cups lined with parchment can make for a fun, portable finger food experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They’ll stay crisp if you place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture. Keep in mind that the cheese texture may firm up a bit when cooled, so reheating is important for the best experience.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked, breaded goat cheese balls before frying by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring to a freezer bag. This makes them incredibly convenient to prepare ahead of time and fry fresh whenever you want a quick, impressive snack.
Reheating
To reheat and restore their crunch, pop the fried goat cheese balls in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it will make the coating soggy and the cheese texture less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried in this recipe?
Fresh cherries have a lot of moisture and may affect the consistency of the goat cheese balls, making them harder to fry. Dried tart cherries work best because they add concentrated flavor without excess moisture.
What’s the best oil for frying these goat cheese balls?
Canola oil is a great choice due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, which allows for a perfect crispy crust without overwhelming the delicate flavors inside.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While baking might be healthier, it won’t achieve the same crispy golden crust that frying does. If you do bake them, expect a softer texture and less crunch, but you can try lightly spraying with oil and baking at a high temperature for better results.
How long can I freeze the prepped goat cheese balls?
They can be frozen for up to one month without losing quality. Be sure to tightly seal them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
What if my goat cheese balls aren’t holding their shape during frying?
Chilling them well before frying is key to firmness. If you skip this step, they may soften and lose shape. Also, handle them gently when coating and frying to keep them intact.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves a mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory in one delicious bite. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special and a little bit fancy with minimal effort. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this fun, flavorful cooking adventure — once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Print
Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Cherry and Pecan Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 goat cheese balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Goat Cheese Balls are a delightful appetizer that combines tangy goat cheese with sweet dried cherries and crunchy pecans. Coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect party snack or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces good quality goat cheese (divided into 3 small packages)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 tablespoon sea salt, divided
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 cups canola oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Optional: Pomegranate balsamic vinegar for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare coating mixtures: Place the flour in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine the egg white with 2 tablespoons of water. In a third bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Set all three bowls aside.
- Form goat cheese balls: Roll the goat cheese into 24 balls about 1 tablespoon in size each. As you roll each ball, gently press in some dried tart cherries and chopped pecans to incorporate them into the cheese.
- Chill the balls: Place the goat cheese balls in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm them up and make them easier to handle for frying.
- Coat the balls: Dredge each chilled goat cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it completely in the egg mixture ensuring full coverage, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko and sea salt mixture. Do not skimp on the panko to get a crispy crust.
- Heat oil: Heat the canola oil in a deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use a deep pan to prevent oil splatter and maintain a steady temperature without boiling the oil.
- Fry the balls: Working in small batches, carefully place 2 to 3 goat cheese balls into the hot oil. Fry for about 30 seconds or until the coating is crisp and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a cookie rack or paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fried goat cheese balls warm, optionally drizzled with pomegranate balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy finish. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the goat cheese balls before frying is essential to keep their shape and prevent melting too quickly in hot oil.
- Use a deep saucepan or fryer to safely contain the oil and prevent splattering.
- Panko crumbs provide a superior crunchy texture compared to regular bread crumbs.
- Adjust the amount of cherries and pecans to taste or omit if preferred.
- Serve immediately after frying as they are best enjoyed warm and crispy.
- If desired, substitute canola oil with a neutral oil suitable for frying such as vegetable or peanut oil.
