Crunchy Cheese Balls (Printable Version)

Golden-crisp fried snacks filled with gooey cheese and bacon, wrapped in crushed Doritos. Ideal as an appetizer or finger food for gatherings.

# Ingredients:

→ Filling

01 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
02 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 8 oz softened cream cheese
04 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 4 cooked bacon slices, crumbled
06 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Coating

08 - 1/2 cup plain flour
09 - 1 tablespoon milk
10 - 2 beaten eggs
11 - 2 cups crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos

→ Frying

12 - 2 cups of vegetable oil

# Steps:

01 - Combine the cream cheese, cheddar, crumbled bacon, and spices. Chill it in the fridge for about 20 minutes until it’s firm.
02 - Take spoonfuls of the mix, shape into small balls, and put them on a lined tray. Freeze for 15-20 minutes.
03 - Get three dishes ready: one with flour, another with crushed Doritos, and the last one with beaten eggs and milk.
04 - Coat each ball lightly in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then fully coat in the Doritos crumbs. Press a little to make sure the coating sticks.
05 - Warm oil to 350°F. Fry them in batches for 1-2 minutes, just until golden brown. Let them drain on a paper towel.

# Notes:

01 - Use 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes instead of frying if preferred.
02 - Chill the filling before shaping to make it easier to handle.
03 - Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F for best results.
04 - Crush Doritos fresh so the flavor stays bold.