If you love bite-sized snacks that combine gooey, melty cheese with a satisfyingly crispy crust, then you are going to adore this Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe. These golden little morsels are the perfect combo of creamy Babybel cheese wrapped in a crunchy, seasoned breadcrumb coating, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer. They’re quick to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a decadent treat anytime you need a quick cheese fix.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the ingredients — each one is thoughtfully chosen to create that irresistible taste and texture that makes this dish a standout. From the creamy Babybel cheese rounds to the savory Italian seasoning blend, every element plays an essential role in this recipe.
- Babybel cheese rounds: These mini cheese wheels are the star, offering that creamy, melty center once air-fried.
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Your crispy coating that gives the bites their satisfying crunch.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic hint that enhances every bite.
- Onion powder: Brings a subtle savory depth to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that lift the flavor with earthy, herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper: The essential seasoning duo to balance and sharpen the flavors.
- Large egg: Acts as the glue to help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly to each cheese round.
- Cooking spray: A light mist helps achieve that perfect golden brown crust without excess oil.
How to Make Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe
Step 1: Unwrap the Babybel Cheese
Start by peeling off all the wax wrappers from the Babybel cheese rounds. Setting them aside on a clean plate, you’re now ready to create that crunchy coating that will soon enrobe these little cheese gems.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dipping and Coating Bowls
In one bowl, beat the egg until smooth and ready for dipping. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper—this mouthwatering blend will soon add the perfect crispy layer around the creamy cheese.
Step 3: Coat the Cheese
One by one, dip each Babybel round into the egg, making sure it’s fully covered to help the coating stick. Then roll it generously in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until each piece is thoroughly coated. Don’t be shy—this layer is what creates that irresistible crunch you’ll fall in love with.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. This step ensures an even, crispy cook on your cheese bites without melting the cheese too quickly.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Place your coated Babybel cheese bites carefully in the air fryer basket in a single layer—avoid overcrowding so each gets enough hot air circulation. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for that extra golden crisp. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, watching closely so the exterior doesn’t burn, until each bite is delectably golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites cool for a minute or two—they’ll be melty and hot inside, so a brief cooling helps prevent burnt tongues. Once ready, grab your favorite dipping sauce and dive in!
How to Serve Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika can brighten up these cheese bites visually and add a hint of fresh flavor. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish to elevate the whole snacking experience.
Side Dishes
These Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites pair wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads or crunchy vegetable sticks like celery and carrot for a well-rounded snack. A tangy marinara or creamy ranch dip makes an excellent companion, balancing the cheese’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these bites on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces in small bowls—think honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or pesto aioli. You could also skewer a few bites for party-friendly cheese lollipops that are cute and easy to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be tough, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’ll still be tasty but won’t retain the same crispiness without reheating properly.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the coated but uncooked Babybel bites on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time for a fresh-from-the-fryer taste anytime.
Reheating
The best way to bring back the crispiness is to pop the leftover bites into the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 4 minutes. This method revives their crunch and keeps the cheese melty without being overcooked.
FAQs
Can I use regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can bake these cheese bites in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. While the air fryer gives a quicker, crispier result, the oven method works well too.
What dipping sauces go best with this recipe?
Try classic marinara, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. These sauces complement the savory, cheesy bites beautifully and add an exciting variety of flavor.
Can I substitute Babybel cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, but Babybel’s unique wax coating and size make it especially perfect for this recipe. Smaller cheeses like mini mozzarella balls could work, but expect a different texture and melt experience.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely yes! These bites are mild, cheesy, and fun to eat, making them a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Just keep an eye on the cooling time to avoid any hot cheese burns.
Can I make the breadcrumb coating gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep this Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing crunch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way these Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe combines simplicity and indulgence in every crunchy, gooey mouthful. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or a fun appetizer, they never fail to impress. Give it a go—your love for crispy, cheesy bites is about to reach new heights!
Print
Air-Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and gooey Air-Fried Babybel Cheese rounds are a delicious and easy-to-make snack. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and air fried to golden perfection, these bites make a perfect appetizer or party treat.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 8 Babybel cheese rounds
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Unwrap Cheese: Carefully remove the wax coating from each of the 8 Babybel cheese rounds and set them aside for breading.
- Prepare Breading: In a bowl, beat the egg thoroughly. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Coat Cheese: Dip each Babybel cheese round into the beaten egg, ensuring full coverage, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to create an even, thick coating.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to reach the desired temperature.
- Air Fry Cheese: Arrange the coated cheese rounds in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray to encourage crispiness. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking, until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cheese rounds from the air fryer and let them cool for about a minute to allow the cheese to set slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the gooey, crispy delight.
Notes
- You can use either regular or panko breadcrumbs depending on your desired texture; panko will yield a crunchier crust.
- Keep an eye on the cheese while air frying as cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
- Serve immediately as the cheese is best enjoyed warm and gooey.
- These bites pair well with marinara, ranch, or honey mustard dipping sauces.
