Cream Cheese Bites: The Ultimate Party Snack
If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both creamy and crunchy, look no further than Cream Cheese Bites. These delightful little morsels combine the richness of cream cheese with a crispy, golden coating that will have everyone reaching for more. Perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or casual snack time, Cream Cheese Bites are as versatile as they are tasty.
What sets Cream Cheese Bites apart is their perfect balance of texture and flavor. The smooth, tangy cheese mixture is enhanced by sharp cheddar and fresh green onions, while the crispy panko coating adds an irresistible crunch. This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even if you’re new to cooking, and offers plenty of room for customization so you can tweak it to your liking.
Ingredients You Will Need
- For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Coating:
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the coating stations: place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and in a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and dried Italian herbs.
- Remove the chilled cream cheese balls from the fridge. One at a time, roll each ball first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated balls back on the baking sheet.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the cream cheese bites in batches, about 2-3 minutes per batch, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy all over.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried bites onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Let the bites cool for a few minutes before serving—they should be warm and creamy on the inside with a crunchy exterior.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 20-25 bites, serving 4-6 people
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Tips & Variations
- For best results, chill the cream cheese balls well before frying to prevent them from falling apart in the oil.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- You can bake the bites at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Conclusion
Give these Cream Cheese Bites a try, and you’ll quickly see why they’ve become a favorite for so many. Their creamy, cheesy centers and crispy exteriors make for a truly irresistible combination that’s perfect for any occasion.
Pair them with fresh vegetable sticks or a zesty dip to round out your appetizer spread. Don’t forget to share your variations and experiences — your feedback makes the cooking journey even more enjoyable!