Description
Golden Cheese Crunch Bites are irresistibly crispy, cheesy snacks that combine a crunchy exterior with rich sharp cheddar flavor. Quick and easy to make, they’re perfect for any occasion—from casual hangouts to festive parties—and can be customized with spices, herbs, or dietary adaptations including gluten-free and vegan options.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or rice flour for gluten-free)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp butter
Optional Spices and Herbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat
- Optional: fresh or dried parsley, oregano, or thyme
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Grate the sharp cheddar cheese finely and combine it with flour and any desired spices in a mixing bowl to create the base mixture that will hold the bites together.
- Shape the Bites: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Using your hands, form small, bite-sized balls from the cheese mixture, then dip each ball thoroughly into the beaten eggs to coat.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each egg-coated ball in breadcrumbs until evenly covered, forming the crunchy outer layer.
- Cook Until Golden: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated bites and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess butter or oil. Serve warm for the best taste and crispiness.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
- Cook bites in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure an even golden crust.
- Chill shaped bites for 15 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Adjust breadcrumb type to your preference: panko for extra crunch or fine crumbs for a smoother coating.
- Serve immediately to maintain crispiness; reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 bites
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg