Crispy Fried Cheese Pies
These Crispy Fried Cheese Pies are an easy and irresistible snack made with thin bread or pastry wrapped around gooey melted mozzarella, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until perfectly golden and crunchy.
Each bite has a crispy, golden exterior with warm, stretchy melted cheese inside. They are quick to prepare and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or delicious side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Extra crispy and golden on the outside
- Filled with gooey, stretchy melted cheese
- Simple ingredients
- Easy and quick to prepare
- Perfect for snacks and appetizers
- Can be made with bread, spring roll wrappers, or pastry dough
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: About 5 minutes
- Total Time: About 15 minutes
- Servings: Varies
- Course: Appetizer / Snack
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
- White bread slices, or spring roll wrappers / pastry dough
- Mozzarella cheese blocks or slices, or any melting cheese
- Eggs, beaten for the egg wash
- Breadcrumbs, preferably Panko for extra crunch
- Cooking oil, for deep frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
If using white bread, cut off the crusts from each slice. Flatten the bread with a rolling pin until it becomes thin and flexible.
If using spring roll wrappers or pastry dough, simply prepare them according to their size and shape for filling.
2. Add the Cheese
Place a generous amount of mozzarella cheese in the center of each bread slice or piece of dough. Avoid overfilling to help prevent the cheese from escaping during frying.
3. Roll and Seal
Roll the bread or dough tightly around the cheese. Brush the edges with a little beaten egg or water, then press firmly to seal the edges completely.
4. Coat the Pies
Dip each cheese-filled pie into the beaten eggs, making sure it is completely coated.
Immediately roll it generously in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere to all sides.
5. Fry Until Golden
Heat the cooking oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully place the coated pies into the hot oil and fry until they become golden brown and extra crispy on the outside.
Turn them as needed so they brown evenly on all sides.
6. Drain and Serve
Remove the fried cheese pies from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the crispy coating with the melted, stretchy cheese inside.
Recipe Tips
- Seal the edges firmly to help prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.
- Do not overfill the pies with cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide an especially crispy coating.
- Keep the oil at a moderate temperature so the outside browns without burning before the cheese melts.
- Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture and best cheese pull.
Variations
- Cheese Blend: Combine mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or another melting cheese.
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or a little hot sauce to the cheese filling.
- Herbed: Add dried oregano, Italian seasoning, or chopped parsley.
- Garlic Cheese: Add a small amount of garlic powder to the filling.
- Different Wrapper: Use spring roll wrappers or pastry dough instead of white bread.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy cheese pies are best served hot immediately after frying. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an easy and delicious snack.
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic sauce
- Spicy mayonnaise
- Sweet chili sauce
- Ketchup
Storage
Refrigerator
For the best texture, these cheese pies are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat in an oven, air fryer, or skillet until hot and crispy again. Avoid reheating for too long, as the cheese may leak out.
Nutrition
Nutritional values will vary depending on the type and amount of cheese, bread or pastry, breadcrumbs, eggs, and cooking oil used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use spring roll wrappers instead of bread?
Yes. Spring roll wrappers are a great alternative and create a very thin and crispy exterior when fried.
What cheese is best for these fried pies?
Mozzarella is an excellent choice because it melts well and gives you a delicious cheese pull. Other good melting cheeses can also be used.
Why is my cheese leaking while frying?
The pies may not be sealed tightly enough, or they may contain too much filling. Make sure the edges are firmly sealed and avoid overfilling.
Can I use Panko breadcrumbs?
Yes. Panko breadcrumbs are especially good for creating a light and extra-crispy coating.
Can I make these without deep frying?
Yes. You can cook them in an air fryer or bake them until golden and crisp, although the texture may differ from traditional deep-fried pies.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Fried Cheese Pies are a simple and delicious way to enjoy melted cheese wrapped in an irresistibly crunchy coating. With a few basic ingredients and a quick frying process, you can make a golden, crispy snack with a warm and stretchy cheese center that’s perfect for any occasion.
