Save A fun and festive appetizer featuring tangy pickles wrapped in melted cheese and a crispy coating perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
These ornaments quickly became a favorite at our holiday party and were gone in minutes.
Ingredients
- Main: 12 small dill pickles (cornichons or mini gherkins) patted dry , 6 slices cheddar cheese (or any meltable cheese) halved , 2 large eggs
- Breading: ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour) , 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs) , ½ tsp smoked paprika , ¼ tsp garlic powder , ¼ tsp black pepper
- For Frying: Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 2:
- Wrap each pickle tightly with a half slice of cheese.
- Step 3:
- In three shallow bowls place flour in one beaten eggs in the second and breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika garlic powder and black pepper in the third.
- Step 4:
- Dip each cheese-wrapped pickle first in flour then in egg then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Step 5:
- Place coated pickles on a parchment-lined tray Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to help set the coating.
- Step 6:
- In a deep skillet or saucepan heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 7:
- Fry pickles in batches for 2 3 minutes each turning to ensure even crispiness until golden brown.
- Step 8:
- Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil Let cool slightly before serving.
Save My family loves gathering around the kitchen as I prepare these ornaments and enjoys sharing stories while we eat.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls , Paper towels , Baking tray , Saucepan or deep skillet , Slotted spoon or tongs , Thermometer (recommended for oil temperature)
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheese eggs) Gluten (flour breadcrumbs use gluten-free alternatives if needed) Always check product labels for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 4 g per serving
Save These pickle ornaments are sure to be a hit at your next party and are easy to prep ahead of time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheese works best for wrapping the pickles?
Cheddar cheese melts well, providing creamy texture and rich flavor. Pepper jack or Swiss are tasty alternatives.
- → How do I achieve a crispy coating on the pickles?
Drying the pickles thoroughly and chilling after breading helps the coating adhere and fry up crisp and golden.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, coat and freeze the pickles, then fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to cooking time.
- → What spices enhance the breadcrumb coating?
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne add smoky, savory, and mild heat notes.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these crispy cheese-wrapped pickles?
Ranch dressing or honey mustard complement the tanginess and richness with a creamy, zesty contrast.