Name: Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons water; 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 (11 oz.) log soft goat cheese; For frying:; 2 cups oil (grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil); For garnish:; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives

I love these Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey for their delightful combination of creamy goat cheese encased in a golden, crispy shell, finished with a sweet drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh chives. They're a perfect appetizer or snack that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I find this recipe irresistible because it balances rich, tangy goat cheese with the sweetness of honey and the crunch of panko breadcrumbs. It's quick to prepare and always impresses guests, making it a go-to for parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

⅓ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
½ teaspoon kosher salt
⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 (11 oz.) log soft goat cheese

For frying:

2 cups oil (grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil)

For garnish:

1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons minced fresh chives

Directions

In a medium bowl, I combine the flour and black pepper. In a separate bowl, I whisk the egg with salt and 2 tablespoons of water. I place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
I roll the goat cheese into 24 balls, each about 1 tablespoon in size. Then, I coat each ball in the flour mixture, dip it into the egg wash, and roll it in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. I freeze the coated balls for 20 minutes until firm.
When ready to cook, I heat the oil in a deep saucepan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
I fry the goat cheese balls in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp. Using a slotted spoon, I transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
I arrange the poppers on a serving platter, drizzle them with honey, and sprinkle with minced chives. I serve them immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 24 poppers, serving approximately 6 to 8 people as an appetizer. The total preparation and cooking time is about 45 minutes.

Variations

Herb-Infused: I sometimes mix chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the goat cheese for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or drizzle the finished poppers with hot honey.
Nutty Crunch: I mix finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the panko breadcrumbs for a different texture and taste.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare these poppers?

I can roll the goat cheese into balls and refrigerate or freeze them up to 3 days ahead. However, I wait to coat them in panko breadcrumbs until just before frying to maintain their crispiness.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crispy texture, I can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.

What can I serve with these poppers?

I often serve them with a charcuterie board, alongside crackers, cured meats, and fresh fruits. They also make a great topping for salads.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

I prefer goat cheese for its tangy flavor, but I can experiment with other soft cheeses like feta or cream cheese, keeping in mind the texture and taste will vary.

Is there a substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If I don't have panko, I use regular breadcrumbs, though they may result in a slightly less crispy texture.

Conclusion

These Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey are a delightful treat that combines creamy, tangy cheese with a sweet and crunchy exterior. They're versatile, easy to make, and always a hit at gatherings. I enjoy making them for their simplicity and the joy they bring to any occasion.