Save A fun and festive appetizer featuring tangy pickles wrapped in melted cheese and a crispy coating, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
This appetizer quickly became a favorite at our family parties because of its unique combination of tangy and cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 small dill pickles (cornichons or mini gherkins): patted dry
- 6 slices cheddar cheese: halved
- 2 large eggs:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: or gluten-free flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: or gluten-free breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp smoked paprika:
- ¼ tsp garlic powder:
- ¼ tsp black pepper:
- Vegetable oil: for frying
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 2:
- Wrap each pickle tightly with a half slice of cheese.
- Step 3:
- In three shallow bowls, place flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper in the third.
- Step 4:
- Dip each cheese-wrapped pickle first in flour, then in egg, then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Step 5:
- Place coated pickles on a parchment-lined tray Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to help set the coating.
- Step 6:
- In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 7:
- Fry pickles in batches for 23 minutes each turning to ensure even crispiness until golden brown.
- Step 8:
- Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil Let cool slightly before serving.
Save This recipe always brings smiles to our family gatherings when served fresh and crispy.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls Paper towels Baking tray Saucepan or deep skillet Slotted spoon or tongs Thermometer recommended for oil temperature
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheese eggs) Gluten (flour breadcrumbs use gluten-free alternatives if needed) Always check product labels for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 4 g per serving
Save These crispy cheese-wrapped pickle ornaments make a unique and delicious appetizer perfect for any occasion
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pickles work best?
Small dill pickles like cornichons or mini gherkins work well due to their firm texture and tangy flavor.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, meltable cheeses such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss provide great flavor and texture.
- → How do I make the coating extra crispy?
Chill the coated pickles before frying and ensure the oil temperature stays around 350°F for optimal crispiness.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to keep it gluten-free.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, coat and freeze the pickles, then fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.