Baked Goat Cheese Balls
User Reviews
5
Baked Goat Cheese Balls
Description
The Baked Goat Cheese Balls start with goat cheese logs cut into small portions and shaped into balls. These are coated in a mixture of finely chopped walnuts and Italian-seasoned panko breadcrumbs, which creates a textured crust upon baking. Eggs act as a binder for the coating. After freezing to firm up, the balls are baked at high heat until crispy and golden. A light spray of olive oil helps achieve an even crispy crust. A drizzle of honey adds a contrasting sweetness that complements the tangy goat cheese and nutty coating.
These cheese balls serve well as finger foods for gatherings or as an elegant appetizer. The contrast between the creamy interior and crunchy exterior makes them interesting and enjoyable. Adjusting the seasoning in the breadcrumbs allows customization of flavor.
The recipe suggests using honey goat cheese or plain goat cheese, and seasoning plain panko breadcrumbs with Italian blend or herbs to replicate the flavor. Baking time may vary slightly, so monitoring for golden color is recommended. Utilizing parchment paper and optionally a wire rack ensures even baking without sticking.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup walnuts
- ¾ cup panko bread crumbs panko with Italian blend seasoning mixed in, italian style
- 2 egg
- 2 (8 oz) goat cheese logs
- honey for drizzling
- olive oil as needed, spray form
EXTRAS
- parchment paper
- large baking sheet
- wire cooling rack (optional)
Instructions
- Cut goat cheese logs into 8-12 portions each (16-24 total) and roll into balls.
- Finely chop and crush your walnuts until it resembles a coarse flour. You can do this with a rolling pin or wine bottle and a plastic bag or use a food processor to mince 'em up.
- Combine walnuts with panko in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Crack eggs into a medium bowl and whisk well.
- Working one at a time, dip the goat cheese balls into the whisked egg then into the panko bowl. Roll/sprinkle until coated on all sides.
- Place panko goat cheese balls spaced on a parchment paper lined baking sheet or plate and freeze for 30 minutes.
- When you're ready to bake, preheat oven to 465 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the goat cheese balls on top of the parchment and spray with olive oil. This will help them get crispy and golden.
- Place on the center rack and bake for 8 minutes. Depending on your oven's efficiency, check the balls at the 6-minute mark and keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once fresh from the oven use a spatula to transfer to a plate or cutting board to cool. Leaving them on the hot baking sheet can make them melt. You can also try to lift the entire sheet of parchment and place on top of a cooling rack. They’ll slide around a bit when lifted, but with care the whole tray can be transferred crazy quick this way!
- Allow to cool slightly, then drizzle with honey before serving. Enjoy as part of a tasty appetizer spread or with your favorite salad!
Notes
- Honey goat cheese enhances sweetness, but plain goat cheese works well too.
- If using plain panko breadcrumbs, season with Italian seasoning or herbs like basil for flavor.
- Freeze coated cheese balls before baking to help maintain shape and improve texture.
- Monitor baking time closely from 6 minutes onward to achieve desired golden crispness.
- Use parchment-lined baking sheets and optionally a wire rack for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Nutrition values may vary with added honey or oil; consider adjustments as needed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 94 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 94kcal | 5% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 33mg | 11% |
| Sodium | 112mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 23mg | 0% |
| Vitamin A | 325IU | 7% |
| Calcium | 45mg | 5% |
| Iron | 0.7mg | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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