Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe
If you’re searching for your next crowd-pleasing appetizer or an irresistibly melty snack, look no further than this Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe. Imagine bite-sized, golden-crisp cheese rounds with a gooey center, just waiting to be dunked into your favorite sauce. Whether you’re entertaining, craving something special, or simply want a fun twist on classic mozzarella sticks, this recipe has it all — quick prep, easy ingredients, and big, satisfying flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe is just how straightforward it is, but don’t be fooled: every ingredient has a role in building that perfect contrast of crisp coating and melted cheese. Here’s what you’ll need to make these golden rounds irresistible.
- Mini Babybel cheese rounds (6, unwrapped): The creamy, perfectly-portioned heart of this recipe that melts into cheesy bliss.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Helps the breading stick, for that vital first layer of crunch.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Acts as the glue to hold the panko breadcrumbs securely around the cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1½ cups): Panko’s extra crunch is unbeatable in this Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a burst of savory flavor to every bite.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Lends warm color and a subtle smokiness to the coating.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the cheese’s richness.
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray: Ensures the cheese crisps up instead of sticking to the air fryer basket.
How to Make Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Cheese
Start by unwrapping all six Babybel cheese rounds and gently patting them dry with a paper towel. This little step might seem skippable, but it’s essential for helping the breading stick and getting the crispiest finish possible.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Arrange three shallow bowls in a row. Fill the first with flour, the second with your beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed together with the garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Organizing things this way makes breading quick, easy, and mess-free!
Step 3: Bread the Cheese Rounds
Take each cheese round and roll it in flour, making sure it’s completely coated. Next, dip it into the eggs, then roll it in the seasoned panko mixture, gently pressing so the coating sticks. For a shatteringly crisp shell, repeat the egg and panko steps for a double coating — trust me, it’s worth the extra minute.
Step 4: Freeze for Best Results
Transfer your breaded cheese rounds to a plate or a small tray and pop them into the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. This quick chill helps the breading firm up, keeping the cheese from melting and escaping before the crust gets golden.
Step 5: Get Ready to Air Fry
While the cheese rounds chill, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). When it’s ready, lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray. Arrange the cheese rounds in a single layer with space between each — if they touch, they could stick together or cook unevenly. Lightly mist the tops with oil for the crunchiest possible finish.
Step 6: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes, watching as the outside becomes golden and crisp. These go from perfect to over-done quickly, so keep an eye out after the 5-minute mark. Serve immediately for that gorgeous melted center!
How to Serve Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
While these cheese rounds are already the star of the show, try a sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A dusting of extra paprika or a light drizzle of honey can also be fun, depending on your mood and the crowd!
Side Dishes
This Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with an array of dips like marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli. Add crisp veggies, a simple green salad, or even fries to round out a snack plate or kid-friendly lunch box.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond just a plate: Skewer each cheese round and stack with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a fun party “cheese pop.” Or, serve them in mini cups with a spoonful of warm marinara at the bottom for a dressed-up appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extras? Place any cooled, leftover cheese rounds in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They’ll stay crisp and delicious, especially if you reheat them the right way!
Freezing
The Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe can even be made ahead: bread the cheese and freeze the uncooked rounds in a single layer, then transfer to a resealable bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. Bake directly from the freezer, just adding a couple extra minutes to the air frying time.
Reheating
To re-crisp leftovers, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 4 minutes until hot and golden. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy and the cheese overly runny.
FAQs
Can I use different varieties of Babybel cheese?
Absolutely! This Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe is delicious with the classic original, light, mozzarella, or gouda varieties. Each gives its own unique flavor and melt, so try your favorites or mix them for variety.
Do I really need to freeze the cheese before air frying?
Freezing is key, even just for 15 minutes! It helps the breading set and prevents the cheese from oozing out too soon, ensuring a dreamy, gooey center and a crisp outer shell.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap regular flour for your favorite gluten-free all-purpose blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The results are just as tasty and crispy as the classic version.
What dipping sauces work best?
Marinara sauce is a classic, but ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a simple garlic aioli all take this Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe to the next level. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your dips!
Can I bake these if I don’t have an air fryer?
Yes — while the air fryer delivers unbeatable crunch in a flash, you can bake the coated cheese rounds on a parchment-lined sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Still crispy, still cheesy!
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough good things about this Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe — it’s fun, unfussy, and always a hit at parties or even just as a solo snack. If you’re a cheese lover or looking for something a little extra for your appetizer table, give it a try and enjoy every golden, melty bite!
Print
Air Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these crispy and flavorful Air Fried Babybel Cheese bites that make a perfect snack or appetizer. With a crunchy coating and gooey melted cheese inside, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Babybel Cheese Rounds:
- 6 Mini Babybel cheese rounds, unwrapped
Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Additional:
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Dry the Babybel cheese rounds with a paper towel.
- Breading Station: Set up three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
- Coating: Roll cheese in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for a double coating.
- Freeze: Place breaded cheese on a plate and freeze for 15–20 minutes.
- Preheat: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket.
- Air Fry: Arrange cheese rounds in a single layer, spray with oil, and air fry for 5–6 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Try different Babybel varieties like light, mozzarella, or gouda.
- Freezing the cheese before air frying helps maintain its shape.
- Pair with marinara, ranch, or preferred dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
