Ingredients:

  • 8 oz goat cheese, softened slightly
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 small Granny Smith apple, finely diced

Instructions:

  1. Fold the lemon zest and black pepper into the softened goat cheese in a small bowl.
  2. Scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball approximately 3/4 inch in diameter.
  3. Place cheese balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes until firm to the touch.
  4. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder and salt.
  5. Roll each chilled cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat thoroughly in panko, pressing firmly to ensure a seamless seal.
  6. Heat 1/4 inch of neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Fry the bites for 60–90 seconds per side until the crust is deep mahogany-gold.
  8. Drain the bites on paper towels for 1 minute.
  9. Whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl, then stir in the finely diced apple.
  10. Drizzle the honey-apple glaze over the hot bites immediately before serving.