Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey

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Introduction

Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and sweet. These bite-sized delights feature a crunchy golden crust, a soft and tangy goat cheese center, and a drizzle of honey that adds a touch of natural sweetness. The addition of tarragon provides a subtle, aromatic hint of anise, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or a unique party dish, these crispy cheese bites will impress everyone with their simple yet sophisticated taste.

I remember the first time I made these for a dinner gathering with friends. The moment they took their first bite, the crispy shell gave way to the warm, creamy goat cheese inside, and the combination of flavors had everyone reaching for more. What I love about these cheese balls is their versatility—you can pair them with different drizzles like balsamic glaze, spicy honey, or even fig jam for a unique twist. They also work beautifully with a side of fresh fruit, nuts, or a crisp salad for a more elevated presentation.

Surprisingly easy to make, these fried goat cheese balls require just a few ingredients and a quick fry to achieve their irresistible texture. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your appetizer spread or simply indulge in a crispy, cheesy treat, these are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Elegant appetizers
• Cheese lovers
• Party platters
• Brunch menus
• Snacking with a twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey will be a go-to favorite:

• Crispy and Creamy: The contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft, melty interior is irresistible.
• Sweet and Savory Balance: The natural sweetness of honey complements the tangy goat cheese beautifully.
• Herbaceous Touch: Fresh tarragon adds a unique, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
• Easy to Make: Requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation.
• Great for Entertaining: These bite-sized treats make a stunning appetizer for guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 12 cheese balls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey:

For the Cheese Balls:

• 8 oz goat cheese (chevre), softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For Breading:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

For Frying:

• 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For Garnish:

• 3 tablespoons honey
• Extra fresh tarragon leaves for garnish
• Cracked black pepper (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Goat Cheese: Provides a tangy, creamy base with a rich texture.
• Tarragon: Adds an aromatic, slightly licorice-like flavor.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a light, crispy coating for extra crunch.
• Honey: Balances the savory flavors with natural sweetness.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of savory depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey:

Prepare the Cheese Balls:

1. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped tarragon, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
2. Shape into Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined plate.
3. Chill the Cheese Balls: Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold their shape while frying.

Bread the Cheese Balls:

4. Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten egg in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
5. Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and then coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

Fry the Cheese Balls:

6. Heat the Oil: In a small saucepan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to about 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry Until Golden: Fry the cheese balls in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
8. Drain and Cool: Remove the cheese balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Serve and Garnish:

9. Drizzle with Honey: Arrange the cheese balls on a serving plate and drizzle with honey while they are still warm.
10. Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with extra fresh tarragon leaves and a dash of cracked black pepper for added flavor. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• As an Appetizer: Serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• With Crackers or Bread: Pair with crostini or a fresh baguette.
• With a Fresh Salad: Serve alongside mixed greens, arugula, or spinach for a refreshing balance.
• With Dipping Sauces: Try pairing with fig jam, balsamic glaze, or a simple yogurt-based dip.
• At a Brunch Table: These cheese balls make a unique and impressive brunch addition.

Additional Tips

• Chill the cheese mixture well before frying to prevent melting too quickly.
• Double coat with breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
• Use fresh tarragon for the best flavor.
• Fry in small batches to maintain even cooking.
• Drizzle honey just before serving to keep the crust crispy.

Recipe Variations

1. Herbed Goat Cheese Balls: Add chopped chives, basil, or rosemary for extra flavor.
2. Spicy Goat Cheese Balls: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
3. Lemon-Infused Goat Cheese Balls: Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
4. Nut-Crusted Goat Cheese Balls: Use crushed almonds or pistachios instead of breadcrumbs.
5. Baked Goat Cheese Balls: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
6. Vegan Goat Cheese Balls: Use dairy-free cheese and flaxseed egg for a plant-based version.
7. Sesame-Crusted Goat Cheese Balls: Coat in sesame seeds instead of panko for an earthy crunch.
8. Fig and Goat Cheese Balls: Stuff with a tiny piece of dried fig for a sweet surprise inside.
9. Truffle Goat Cheese Balls: Drizzle with truffle oil for a luxurious flavor.
10. Honey and Cinnamon Goat Cheese Balls: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the honey drizzle for a warm, spiced touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Freeze the unbreaded cheese balls for up to 1 month. Bread and fry directly from frozen.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven for crispiness.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan or deep skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels for draining

FAQ Section

1. Can I air-fry these? Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
2. Can I use dried tarragon? Fresh is best, but dried tarragon works—use half the amount.
3. Can I make these ahead? Yes! Shape and chill the cheese balls a day in advance, then bread and fry when ready.
4. What can I use instead of honey? Maple syrup or date syrup works as a delicious substitute.
5. Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.

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Conclusion

Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey are a crispy, creamy, and flavorful delight that bring a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The golden, crunchy exterior gives way to a tangy, velvety center, while the aromatic tarragon and drizzle of sweet honey elevate every bite.

With their elegant yet approachable appeal, these fried cheese balls are ideal for appetizers, snacks, or party dishes. Whether served on their own or paired with crackers, fruit, or a dipping sauce, they’re guaranteed to impress.

This recipe is simple to make and delivers restaurant-quality results at home. A quick fry creates the perfect crunch, and the combination of tarragon and honey adds a gourmet touch that will leave everyone craving more.

I’d love to see your Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me so I can admire your delicious creation. Happy cooking!