Golden Cheese Crunch Bites
Golden Cheese Crunch Bites are the ultimate crispy, gooey snack perfect for parties, game nights, or cheesy cravings. Made with melty cheese centers and a crunchy coating, they’re easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and incredibly addicting!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded)
- Small cookie scoop or spoon
- Baking sheet or tray
- Frying pan or air fryer
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack (optional)
Ingredients
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Optional: paprika cayenne, Italian herbs (for breadcrumb seasoning)
- Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking/air-frying
Instructions
- Mix the Filling
- In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Shape the Bites
- Scoop out small portions (about 1 inch) and roll into balls. Place them on a lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Coating Stations
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Cheese Bites
- Roll each frozen ball in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
- Chill Again
- Chill the coated bites for another 10 minutes in the fridge or freezer to prevent leaks during cooking.
- Cook the Bites
- Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry bites in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place bites on a lined sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange bites in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve Warm
- Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dips!
Notes
For a gooier center, use mozzarella instead of cheddar.
Freeze well before cooking to avoid leaking cheese.
Add chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Make ahead: freeze fully coated bites for up to 2 months.
Freeze well before cooking to avoid leaking cheese.
Add chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Make ahead: freeze fully coated bites for up to 2 months.