Crispy Cheese-Wrapped Pickle Ornaments (Printable Version)

Tangy pickles enveloped in melted cheese and a crunchy coating, perfect for festive appetizing bites.

# Components:

→ Main

01 - 12 small dill pickles (cornichons or mini gherkins), patted dry
02 - 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved
03 - 2 large eggs

→ Breading

04 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
05 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
06 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
08 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ For Frying

09 - Vegetable oil, for frying

# Method Steps:

01 - Pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - Wrap each pickle tightly with a half slice of cheddar cheese.
03 - Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and in a third, mix panko breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
04 - Dip each cheese-wrapped pickle first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
05 - Arrange coated pickles on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to set the coating.
06 - Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
07 - Fry pickles in batches for 2 to 3 minutes each, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
08 - Transfer fried pickles to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and let cool slightly before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare festive appetizer
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings and parties
02 -
  • For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture
  • Serve with ranch or honey mustard dipping sauce
03 -
  • Chilling the coated pickles before frying helps set the crust
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for perfect crispiness
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