Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Spicy Sage Honey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 75 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 16 goat cheese balls
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Fried goat cheese balls with spicy sage honey are a crispy, creamy, and elegant appetizer perfect for entertaining. Tangy goat cheese is rolled into bite-sized balls, breaded with panko, and fried to a golden crisp, then drizzled with a warm honey infused with fresh sage and a touch of red pepper flakes. Each bite delivers a rich combination of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory flavors—a delightful appetizer for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

Goat Cheese Balls

  • 8 oz goat cheese (chilled)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch depth)

Spicy Sage Honey

  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage (finely chopped)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Goat Cheese Balls: Scoop and roll the chilled goat cheese into 1-inch balls, making about 16 in total. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 15–20 minutes until firm.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three separate bowls—one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This will streamline the breading process.
  3. Bread the Cheese Balls: Roll each chilled goat cheese ball first in flour, then dip into the egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, dip again in egg and panko. Return the coated balls to the freezer for another 10 minutes to firm up.
  4. Make Spicy Sage Honey: In a small saucepan, combine honey, finely chopped fresh sage, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Warm the mixture over low heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, then set aside.
  5. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is hot enough for frying the cheese balls properly.
  6. Fry the Cheese Balls: Fry the goat cheese balls in batches, cooking each for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Turn the balls as needed for even frying to achieve a crispy coating.
  7. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm, drizzled with the spicy sage honey or with the honey on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • You can prepare and freeze the goat cheese balls ahead of time until ready to fry.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed nuts.
  • The spicy sage honey also pairs wonderfully when drizzled over roasted vegetables or cheese boards.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/fried-goat-cheese-balls-with-spicy-sage-honey-recipe-2/