If you’re searching for a snack that’s crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, and incredibly easy to whip up, you’re in the perfect spot. This Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe transforms those little rounds of Babybel cheese into irresistible golden puffs that are pure magic. Whether you’re craving a fun appetizer or a quick treat, these bites deliver that satisfying crunch with melty cheese in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to snacks for entertaining or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in delivering the best flavor and texture. Keeping it simple means you focus on what really matters—crispy coating and creamy cheese!
- Babybel cheese: These mini rounds provide the perfect size and gooey texture that melts flawlessly when cooked.
- All-purpose flour: This helps the egg wash stick to the cheese, creating a base for the crispy coating.
- Large eggs, whisked: The eggs act like a glue that ensures the breadcrumbs adhere well to the cheese.
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Packed with herbs and spices, these add flavor and that satisfying crunch you’re after.
How to Make Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cheese
Start by unwrapping each Babybel cheese and setting them aside on a clean plate. You’ll want to work quickly so that the cheese doesn’t get too warm and start to soften prematurely. This step ensures you have nice, intact rounds ready for coating.
Step 2: Create Your Breading Stations
Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the whisked eggs, and one with the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. This classic breading technique, often called the dredge, is essential for that crispy crust that will hold up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 3: Coat the Babybel Cheese
Roll each Babybel first in the flour, tapping off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumbs. Don’t be shy—make sure the cheese is fully covered for maximum crunch.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Place the breaded Babybel rounds in your air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 7 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through if your air fryer requires it. You’re looking for a golden brown exterior encasing a melty, cheesy interior.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately
Once done, carefully remove the bites—hot cheese is delicious but beware of burns! Let them cool for a minute or two before diving in.
How to Serve Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of finely chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate these bites visually and flavor-wise, adding a pop of color and a slight flavor twist that wakes up your palate.
Side Dishes
Pair these cheese bites with a crisp green salad or some tangy marinara sauce for dipping. The freshness from the salad balances the richness, while the marinara provides that classic warm, savory contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve your Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe on a wooden board with an assortment of dipping sauces—think garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard. You can also skewer a few bites with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheese bites taste great the next day, but to keep them crispy, store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels in the refrigerator. Avoid stacking to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to make these in advance, freeze the breaded but uncooked Babybel bites on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and air fry straight from frozen—no need to thaw!
Reheating
To get that crisp finish back, reheat the leftovers in your air fryer at 360°F (180°C) for 3–4 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep them crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
While Babybel cheese works best because of its size and meltability, you can experiment with small rounds of other semi-soft cheeses. Just make sure they’re firm enough to handle the breading and air frying process.
Do I need to thaw frozen Babybel cheese before air frying?
Nope! You can air fry these bites straight from frozen, which makes meal prep super convenient without compromising the crispy texture.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoned breadcrumbs?
No worries—plain breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of garlic powder, oregano, and basil will easily substitute and still deliver plenty of flavor.
Is it necessary to air fry instead of deep fry?
Air frying is a healthier option that still gives you that perfect crunch with less oil. But if you prefer, deep frying works too; just watch the temperature carefully to avoid overcooking.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during air frying?
Make sure to coat the Babybel cheese evenly and thoroughly with the breading layers—that acts as a protective shell to keep the cheese inside as it melts.
Final Thoughts
Getting that perfect bite of crispy, cheesy delight is easier than you think with this Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe. It’s a snack that brings joy with every mouthful and impresses everyone you serve it to. So go ahead and treat yourself—you won’t regret adding this gem to your regular recipe rotation!
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Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a crispy and gooey snack with this Air Fried Babybel Cheese recipe. Perfectly breaded and air-fried to golden perfection, these bite-sized treats offer a delightful combination of melted cheese and a crunchy outer crust. Ideal for parties, appetizers, or a quick indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 package Babybel cheese (12 pieces)
Breading
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Unwrap each Babybel cheese and pat dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture, ensuring the breading sticks well.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour, whisked eggs, and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs into three separate shallow bowls or plates for easy dipping.
- Coat the Cheese: Roll each Babybel cheese first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip them into the whisked eggs, making sure they are fully coated. Finally, press them into the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs to cover completely. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb step one more time.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes to achieve a crispy crust.
- Air Fry the Babybel Cheese: Place the breaded Babybel cheeses in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch to prevent sticking. Cook them at 390°F (200°C) for 7-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve Warm: Carefully remove the air fried Babybel cheese with tongs and serve immediately while the cheese inside is wonderfully melted and gooey.
Notes
- Ensure the cheese is dry before breading for better adhesion.
- Double coating with eggs and breadcrumbs results in an extra crispy crust.
- Serve immediately as the melted cheese cools and hardens quickly.
- You can experiment with different seasoning blends in the breadcrumbs to suit your taste.
- Use a thermometer to check that the air fryer is at the correct temperature before cooking.
