Goat Cheese Balls Recipe

These Goat Cheese Balls are a delightful and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion! Imagine creamy goat cheese rolled in a crunchy pecan and panko crust, with a sweet and tangy hint from dried cranberries. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Textured: The combination of creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and chewy cranberries creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks or when you’re short on time.
• Versatile: You can use plain, honey, or herbed goat cheese for different flavor variations. These goat cheese balls are also great for parties, potlucks, or as a simple snack.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the goat cheese balls ahead of time and freeze them for later, making them a convenient option for entertaining.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Goat cheese: Use your favorite type of goat cheese, such as plain, honey, or herbed.
• Dried cranberries: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor and a chewy texture.
• Pecans: Raw pecan halves are finely ground to create a crunchy crust.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that add a light and crispy texture to the crust.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the crust.
• Dried thyme: Adds an earthy and slightly minty flavor to the crust.
• Egg: Used to help the crust adhere to the goat cheese balls.
• Honey: Drizzled over the baked goat cheese balls for a touch of sweetness.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Goat Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture

Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese and dried cranberries. Use a sturdy spoon to break up the goat cheese and mix it with the cranberries until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape and Freeze

Portion the goat cheese mixture into 18 equal balls, about 1 ¼ inches in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to harden. This will make them easier to coat.

Step 3: Make the Crust

While the goat cheese balls are chilling, prepare the crust. Finely grind the pecan halves in a food processor or crush them with a rolling pin. In a shallow bowl, combine the ground pecans, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and dried thyme. In a separate bowl, beat the egg.

Step 4: Coat the Goat Cheese Balls

Roll each goat cheese ball in the beaten egg, then dredge in the pecan-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere. Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 470°F (240°C) with a rack in the center position. Arrange the coated goat cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown and crisp. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately transfer the goat cheese balls to a serving plate. Let them cool for 1-2 minutes before drizzling with honey. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature goat cheese: Room temperature goat cheese will be easier to mix and shape.
• Chill the goat cheese balls: Chilling the goat cheese balls before coating them helps them hold their shape and prevents them from becoming too soft.
• Don’t over-bake: Overbaking can cause the goat cheese to melt and ooze out. Bake just until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the goat cheese balls ahead of time and freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

How to Serve

These Goat Cheese Balls are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Crackers or Crostini: Serve with crackers or crostini for a simple and elegant appetizer.
• Fruit: Pair with fresh fruit, such as grapes, apples, or pears, for a sweet and savory combination.
• Honey or Jam: Drizzle with honey or your favorite jam for an extra touch of sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Goat Cheese Balls are great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover goat cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze leftover goat cheese balls in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut for the crust?
Yes, you can! Feel free to use your favorite nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios.

2. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can! However, panko breadcrumbs will give the goat cheese balls a lighter and crispier crust.

3. Can I make this recipe without the cranberries?
Yes, you can! The cranberries add a sweet and tangy flavor, but you can omit them if you prefer.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the crust?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as dried herbs, spices, or grated lemon zest.

This Goat Cheese Balls Recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and elegant appetizer. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and make-ahead convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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