Fried Goat Cheese Bites with Honey and Thyme
Fried Goat Cheese Bites with Honey and Thyme are crispy, golden appetizers featuring a warm, melty goat cheese center balanced by the sweetness of honey and the subtle herbal notes of fresh thyme. Perfect for quick preparation in under 30 minutes, these bites offer a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and herbal flavors that make them ideal for entertaining or indulging in a savory snack.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 20 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American / Contemporary
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cheese
- Soft, fresh goat cheese logs (cut into 1-inch rounds)
Breading
- All-purpose flour, for dredging
- 2 eggs, whisked
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular), mixed with finely chopped fresh thyme, salt, and pepper
Frying & Seasoning
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish & Finish
- High-quality honey, for drizzling
- Fresh thyme leaves, for sprinkling
- Prepare the Goat Cheese: Cut the goat cheese logs into bite-sized rounds about 1 inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 30 minutes to help them firm up before frying.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In a second bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with finely chopped fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Cheese Bites: Remove the goat cheese from the freezer. Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each bite is fully covered.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated goat cheese bites in batches for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Drizzle with Honey and Garnish: While still warm, drizzle each bite generously with high-quality honey and sprinkle with additional fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- Freeze the goat cheese bites before frying to keep their shape and prevent leaking.
- Use fresh thyme for a stronger herbal flavor instead of dried herbs.
- Maintain medium oil temperature to ensure even browning without burning.
- For extra crunch, double-coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Drain fried bites well on paper towels to avoid greasiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 bites
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: fried goat cheese bites, appetizer, honey, thyme, party snack, creamy cheese, crunchy coating, quick appetizer