A panko crumb coating ensures that these balls will be golden brown on the outside . It’s best to serve them warm while the cheese is melty and oozy on the inside.

Fried Bacon Cheddar Balls

Line a baking sheet with wax paper; set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese and bacon. Roll into 1-inch balls. Place balls on prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until firm.

In another medium bowl, whisk together egg and club soda. Gradually whisk in flour, cornstarch and salt. In a shallow dish, combine panko crumbs and parsley. Dip cheese balls in egg batter; coat in panko mixture. Repeat dipping and coating. Return cheese balls to baking sheet and freeze for 15 minutes or until firm.

In a large saucepan or deep-fat fryer, heat 2 inches vegetable oil to 365 degrees. Working in batches, fry cheese balls about 2 minutes or until golden and crisp, turning occasionally. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Transfer cheese balls to a platter. If desired, garnish with additional parsley. Serve warm.

Make-Ahead Tip: Place fried cheese balls on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. Keep warm in a 200-degree oven.

*Nutrition is based recipe before frying* 