Crispy and Cheesy Air Fried Babybel Snacks
Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
If you’re looking for an irresistibly crispy, gooey snack or appetizer, these air-fried Babybel cheese bites are a game-changer! Loved by cheese enthusiasts everywhere, this simple recipe has gone viral for a reason—it combines the creaminess of melted cheese with the crunch of a perfectly golden coating. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for entertaining, a quick snack, or satisfying a cheese craving.
The Secret to Perfect Air-Fried Cheese
The combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and soft, melted Babybel cheese creates a snack that’s perfect for dipping in marinara, ranch, or your favorite sauce. The air fryer ensures an even, golden coating without the need for deep-frying, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried cheese bites.
Recipe Requirements
Here’s everything required to create this cheesy delight:
Main Ingredients:
- Babybel Cheese: Individually wrapped and perfectly portioned, Babybel cheese rounds are the star of this recipe.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps the egg coating stick to the cheese.
- Eggs: Acts as the adhesive layer for the breadcrumbs.
- Italian-Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Optional Add-Ins for Flavor:
- Parmesan Cheese: Mix into the breadcrumbs for extra cheesiness.
- Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: Adds a burst of savory flavor to the coating.
- Crushed Chips or Panko: For a fun twist, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed Doritos or panko.
How to Make Air-Fried Babybel Cheese
- Prepare the Cheese
Unwrap the Babybel cheese and remove the wax casing. Set them aside on a plate. - Set Up Your Dipping Stations
Use three shallow bowls or plates:- Bowl 1: Add the all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk the eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Pour in the seasoned breadcrumbs (and optional flavorings like Parmesan or garlic powder).
- Coat the Cheese
- Dip each Babybel round into the flour, ensuring a light, even coat.
- Next, submerge the floured cheese into the whisked eggs, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, roll the cheese in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the coating. For extra crunch and to prevent cheese leakage, double-coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Prepare for Air Frying
Lightly spray the coated cheese rounds with olive oil spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring no pieces touch or overlap. - Cook to Perfection
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Cook the cheese bites for 8–10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. The coating should be golden and crisp, while the cheese inside will be perfectly melted.
Serving Air-Fried Babybel Cheese
These crispy cheese bites are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the air fryer. Pair them with:
- Marinara Sauce: For a classic Italian-inspired flavor.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy dip that complements the crunchy coating.
- Honey Mustard: For a tangy twist.
- Spicy Dips: Add a kick with sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Overlapping: To ensure even cooking, keep the cheese rounds spaced out in the air fryer basket.
- Seal the Coating: Double-dipping in egg and breadcrumbs creates a thicker barrier that prevents the cheese from melting out.
- Work in Batches: Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
- Storage and Reheating: While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Variations and Customizations
- Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Switch the Cheese: Try mozzarella balls, cheddar chunks, or gouda for different flavors.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Recipe
Air Fried Babybel Cheese makes the perfect appetizer recipe! Perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Duration
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 69 kcal
Ingredients:
- 1 package Babybel cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheese: Unwrap the Babybel cheese and remove the wax.
- Set Up Coating Stations: Fill three bowls—flour in one, whisked eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third.
- Coat the Cheese: Dip each cheese round into flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
- Air Fry: Spray coated cheese with olive oil and place in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes and Variations:
- Flavor Up: Mix Parmesan cheese or garlic powder into the breadcrumbs.
- Change the Crust: Use crushed chips or panko for a different texture.
- Storage: Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer.
