I’ve created an irresistible snack—mini Babybel cheeses coated in flour, egg, and crispy breadcrumbs (or crushed chips), then air‑fried until the outside crunches and the inside melts into gooey perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and easy this is—just four ingredients and under 20 minutes from start to finish. The contrast of the crunchy coating and melty cheese always satisfies a cheesy craving. Plus, I can customize the flavor with different crumbs or seasonings, making it perfect as a party appetizer or cozy solo treat. My family now asks for it weekly!
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Babybel cheese rounds
• All‑purpose flour
• Large egg(s), beaten
• Italian seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed chips (e.g. potato chips or Doritos)
directions
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I start by removing the plastic and wax wrapper from the Babybel cheeses.
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I set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs (or crushed chips).
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I roll each cheese round in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs, coating evenly. For a stronger shell I double‐dip in egg and crumbs.
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I lightly spritz both sides with olive oil spray, then place them in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
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I air fry at 380 °F (about 190 °C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway until the coating is golden and crispy. Some versions cook at 400 °F for 3–5 minutes depending on coating type
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I remove with tongs and serve immediately while ultra‑melty inside.
Servings and timing
Makes about 10–12 cheese rounds depending on bag size.
Prep time: around 15 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: roughly 18–20 minutes
Variations
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Spicy kick: mix red pepper flakes or cayenne into the breadcrumbs.
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Parmesan crust: stir grated Parmesan into the crumbs for extra cheese flavor.
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Herb lovers: add dried basil, oregano, thyme to breadcrumb mixture. piesbypaula
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Gluten‑free: substitute gluten‑free flour and breadcrumbs for celiac‑friendly version.
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Chips coating: use crushed flavored chips like Doritos or kettle chips instead of breadcrumbs for bold flavor and texture.
storage/reheating
Storing leftovers:
Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Coating will soften over time.
Freezing uncooked rounds:
Once breaded, place on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to cooking time.
Reheating:
To recapture crispiness, reheat in air fryer at 360 °F for 2–3 minutes until warmed and crunchy again. Oven reheating is possible but may soften coating.
FAQs
How do I keep the cheese from oozing out?
I double-dip each piece in egg and crumbs—that builds a thicker shell that seals in the cheese. Also, I watch closely and remove them once they reach a deep golden—not burnt—coating.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Babybel?
I’ve seen people use mozzarella, cheddar, or Edam cubes inspired by this method—but it’s most fun with the pre-portioned Babybel rounds.
What air fryer settings work best?
I like 380 °F for 8–10 minutes (turning once) for breadcrumb versions; chip coatings sometimes crisp faster at 400 °F for 3–5 minutes.
Can these be made ahead for a party?
They’re best served hot—but I can prep them ahead: bread and refrigerate (or freeze uncooked), then air-fry just before serving.
What dipping sauces pair well?
I love marinara, ranch, honey mustard or even salsa ranch. Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan adds flair too.
Conclusion
I feel this recipe brings together simplicity, speed, and ultimate cheese satisfaction. The crunchy coating yields to molten, melty cheese in every bite. Whether serve as a party appetizer or self‑indulgent snack, it never disappoints. I guarantee once I’ve made it, my family begs me again and again—so get ready to make this your new go‑to cheesy treat!
Print
Air Fried Babybel Cheese
- Total Time: 8–20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Golden‑crunchy Babybel cheese rounds with gooey centers, ready in just minutes using an air fryer—perfect as a snack or party appetizer
Ingredients
1 package (about 10–12 pieces) Babybel cheese
½ cup all‑purpose flour
2 large eggs, whisked
1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray (optional)
Instructions
Peel off the plastic wrapper and wax coating from each Babybel cheese round; set aside.
Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Roll each cheese piece lightly in flour, then dip into the egg, and press into the breadcrumbs until thoroughly coated.
For extra crispness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double layer.
Arrange the coated rounds in a single layer in the air fryer basket—no overlapping. Lightly mist with olive oil spray.
Air fry at 380 °F (193 °C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping them over halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Allow them to rest a minute (so you don’t burn your mouth!), then serve immediately while the centers are melty and soft.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
