Cheese Balls with Strawberry Preserves

Transform your appetizer game with these irresistibly crispy Cheese Balls with Strawberry Preserves—a perfect blend of savory and sweet! Packed with a creamy mixture of tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a hint of garlic, these golden bites are coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. The additional sweetness from warm strawberry preserves creates a sensational dipping companion that takes this dish to the next level. Ready in just 25 minutes, these decadent cheese balls are ideal for parties, game-day gatherings, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing snack. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch and let these dazzling bites be the star of your appetizer table!

Nutriscore Rating: 49/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Cream cheese
• 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 Eggs
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 cups Vegetable oil
• 0.5 cup Strawberry preserves
• 2 tablespoons Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated and smooth.

Step 2

Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion out the cheese mixture and roll into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3

Place the cheese balls in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle during coating.

Step 4

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 5

Remove the cheese balls from the freezer. Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 6

In a deep frying pan or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Step 7

Fry the coated cheese balls in small batches, about 3–4 at a time, for 1–2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 8

Warm the strawberry preserves in a microwave-safe bowl for about 20 seconds or until slightly runny.

Step 9

Serve the cheese balls warm with the strawberry preserves on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1180.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5903.6

Total Fat 544.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 133.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 272.2g
Cholesterol 722.1mg	0%
Sodium 1953.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 227.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.6g	0%
Total Sugars 84.2g
Protein 74.7g	0%

Vitamin D 82IU	0%
Calcium 1153.6mg	0%
Iron 10.6mg	0%
Potassium 708.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 80.2%

Protein: 4.9%

Carbs: 14.9%