Description
These Goat Cheese Balls are a delightful appetizer, perfect for any gathering. Creamy goat cheese blended with herbs and spices, formed into balls, and rolled in your choice of coatings for a tasty treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheese Balls:
- 8 ounces goat cheese (softened)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Coating Options:
- ½ cup chopped fresh herbs or chopped nuts (like parsley, chives, pecans, or pistachios)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for crispy version)
- olive oil spray (if air frying or baking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Chill the mixture for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Form the Balls: Once chilled, scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in chopped herbs or nuts for a soft version. For a crispy version, roll the balls in panko breadcrumbs.
- Cooking Instructions: To air fry or bake, lightly spray the panko-coated cheese balls with olive oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Great served warm or chilled.
- Pair with crackers, honey drizzle, or a fig jam for an elegant appetizer.
- For a sweet twist, roll in crushed candied pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (optional)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook or Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
