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Crispy Golden Fried Cheese Balls

Category: Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers

These ultra-light, crispy cheese balls deliver irresistible cheesy flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Fluffy whipped egg whites are combined with grated cheddar, shaped and chilled for stability before hitting hot oil. Fry briefly for golden brown bites with a delicate crunch and gooey, molten centers. With just three simple ingredients and minimal prep, these bites are ideal for quick gatherings or late-night cravings. Enjoy them piping hot, right from the fryer, paired with your favorite dip or simply sprinkled with a pinch of salt for maximum satisfaction.

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Updated on Mon, 09 Jun 2025 20:37:18 GMT
Fried cheese balls on a plate. Pin
Fried cheese balls on a plate. | applefoodie.com

Ultra-light and crispy fried cheese balls are proof that magic can happen with just a few staple ingredients. These savory bites come together with little more than whipped egg whites and cheddar, turning out golden and airy every time. They are ideal for parties or when you want to treat yourself to something warm and cheesy in just a few minutes.

The whipped egg whites keep them so light and I always get asked for the recipe when I bring these to gatherings. Making a big batch is never enough because there are never leftovers.

Ingredients

  • Egg whites: from two large eggs at room temperature for best volume and stability I always separate them in a small bowl to avoid any yolk contamination
  • Medium cheddar cheese: five ounces grated The sharper the cheese the deeper the flavor Go for a block and grate it fresh for best melt and no added starch
  • Vegetable oil: for deep frying Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as sunflower or canola and make sure it is fresh for clean taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whip the Egg Whites:
Beat the room temperature egg whites using a stand mixer with the whisk attachment or a hand-held mixer Beat on medium high until the whites become thick white and fluffy and stiff peaks form that stand straight up without drooping This creates the structure for the airy cheese balls
Fold in the Cheese:
Carefully add the grated cheddar to the stiff egg whites Use a silicone spatula to gently fold without deflating the mixture Mix just until the cheese is evenly distributed for even flavor in every bite
Portion and Chill:
Scoop the mixture using a one and one half tablespoon cookie scoop and place onto a parchment lined tray Arrange the scoops so they do not touch Chill in the fridge for at least thirty minutes to help the cheese balls hold shape when fried
Heat the Oil:
Add at least four inches of vegetable oil to a Dutch oven or deep sturdy pot Clip a thermometer to monitor temperature Heat over medium until oil reaches three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and keep within the three hundred fifty to three hundred seventy five degree range to ensure crispy and non greasy results
Shape the Cheese Balls:
When ready to fry gently roll each mound into a loose ball in your hands Lightly shape do not compress to preserve the airy texture you built with the whipped egg whites
Fry the Cheese Balls:
Lower several cheese balls into the hot oil making sure they are spaced apart Fry for one to one and a half minutes turning gently with a slotted spoon so all sides brown evenly The cheese balls will puff and turn golden
Drain and Serve:
Remove the cheese balls with a slotted spoon letting excess oil drip off Place them on a platter lined with paper towels Serve piping hot while the shells are crisp and the insides are molten
Fried cheese balls on a plate. Pin
Fried cheese balls on a plate. | applefoodie.com

Cheddar is my personal favorite for this recipe because of how it melts and the rich nutty taste it brings When I made these with my niece for her birthday party the platter was empty before I even sat down She still talks about them

Storage Tips

Fried cheese balls are best served straight away but if you have extras let them cool completely then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two days To reheat arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for about eight minutes to regain their crispy crust Avoid microwaving which makes them soft

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cheddar for other firm and flavorful cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for mellow sweetness Try blending two different kinds of cheese for your own custom flavor If using pre-grated cheese look for one without added fillers

Fried cheese balls on a white plate. Pin
Fried cheese balls on a white plate. | applefoodie.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cheese balls fresh with a side of spicy marinara or ranch for dipping They make a perfect finger food for gatherings alongside sliced veggies or olives For brunch try pairing with a light salad to cut the richness

Cultural Context

Crispy cheese balls are popular appetizers around the globe from the American South to Mediterranean mezze platters Each region adds its own twist using different cheeses or herbs This recipe keeps it simple letting the egg whites and cheddar take the spotlight just as my grandmother did at every family picnic

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I prevent cheese balls from deflating?

Make sure to chill the formed balls thoroughly before frying, and avoid over-mixing the egg whites to maintain their airy structure. Ensure oil temperature remains steady during cooking.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can swap cheddar for hard cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a new flavor dimension.

→ Why does the oil temperature matter?

Consistent oil heat (350-375°F) ensures your cheese balls fry up crispy and golden without absorbing excess oil or falling apart.

→ What's the best way to serve these cheese balls?

Enjoy them hot and fresh from the fryer. They pair well with dipping sauces or as a topping for salads and soups.

→ How can I achieve perfectly round cheese balls?

Use a small cookie scoop for even portions, chill them well, then gently roll into loose balls without compressing too much to preserve their airy quality.

Fried Cheese Balls Crispy Cheddar

Light and crunchy cheese bites featuring whipped egg whites and cheddar. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cook Time
1 min
Total Time
16 min
By: Ava

Category: Appetizers

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 15 Serves (15 cheese balls)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main ingredients

01 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
02 140 g medium cheddar cheese, grated
03 Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Steps

Step 01

Using a stand mixer or electric mixer, beat the room temperature egg whites on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The mixture should be glossy and hold firm peaks.

Step 02

Carefully fold the grated cheddar cheese into the stiff egg whites, mixing gently to avoid deflating the foam while ensuring even distribution.

Step 03

Using a 22 ml (1½ tablespoon) cookie scoop, portion the mixture into mounds on a lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.

Step 04

As the mixture chills, pour at least 10 cm of vegetable oil into a Dutch oven or deep pot. Heat the oil to 175°C, monitoring the temperature closely and adjusting heat to maintain between 175-190°C.

Step 05

Gently roll each chilled mound into a loose ball using your hands, being careful not to compress and lose the airy structure.

Step 06

Carefully lower the shaped cheese balls into the hot oil in batches, ensuring they do not touch. Fry for 1 to 1½ minutes, turning constantly with a slotted spoon until uniformly golden brown.

Step 07

Remove the fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and melting.

Notes & Tips

  1. Room temperature egg whites ensure a stable, voluminous foam for ultra-light texture.
  2. Use a deep pot for easier browning and even rotation of the cheese balls during frying.
  3. Substitute other semi-firm or hard cheeses, such as jack or gouda, for different flavor profiles.
  4. If the mixture is too loose after chilling, add a bit more grated cheese until it holds together.
  5. If the cheese balls deflate after frying, extend frying time slightly to achieve a deeply golden exterior.

Necessary Equipment

  • Stand mixer or electric mixer
  • Dutch oven or deep pot
  • Cookie scoop (22 ml size)
  • Candy thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
  • Contains eggs and dairy. Consult product labels for additional allergens.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice.
  • Calories: 87
  • Fats: 6.9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0.7 g
  • Proteins: 5.6 g