Save to Pinterest A fun and festive appetizer featuring tangy pickles wrapped in melted cheese and a crispy coating, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became my go-to holiday appetizer as guests always ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Main: 12 small dill pickles (cornichons or mini gherkins), patted dry , 6 slices cheddar cheese (or any meltable cheese), halved , 2 large eggs
- Breading: 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
- For Frying: 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 2–3 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 to Pinterest This recipe creates cherished family moments when served fresh at parties and gatherings.
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 to Pinterest These crispy cheese-wrapped pickle ornaments are sure to impress at any party or holiday gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pickles work best for this dish?
Small dill pickles such as cornichons or mini gherkins are ideal due to their size and tangy flavor, which complement the rich cheese and crispy coating.
- → Can I use different cheeses for wrapping?
Yes, cheeses that melt well like cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss enhance the flavor and texture when wrapped around the pickles.
- → How do I ensure a crispy coating?
Pat pickles dry before wrapping, then coat evenly in flour, egg, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Chilling the coated pickles before frying helps the crust set and stay crisp.
- → Is frying the only cooking method?
Frying in hot oil yields the crispiest result, but baking or air frying can be alternatives; however, they may produce a less crunchy texture.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these snacks?
Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy aioli complement the tangy, cheesy flavors and add an extra layer of taste.