Recipes by Brad, Simple Recipes anyone can make

Crispy Pumpkin Cheese Balls (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in the crispy pumpkin cheese balls. Precise measurements ensure consistent taste and crunch. Below is an overview of all essential components.

Pumpkin Purée (1 cup)

This smooth purée provides moisture and natural sweetness while acting as the base flavor. Use cooked and mashed fresh pumpkin or canned purée without added spices.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup)

Mozzarella adds creamy richness and helps bind the mixture while melting beautifully inside each ball for a gooey center.

Breadcrumbs (1 cup)

These create structure within the mixture and form the crispy outer layer when coated before frying or baking.

Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup)

Parmesan enhances cheesy flavor depth and adds a slight salty sharpness complementing the mild mozzarella.

Egg (1 large)

The egg binds all ingredients together securely and helps breadcrumbs adhere to form a firm crust after cooking.

Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)

A subtle hint of garlic infuses savory complexity without overpowering the delicate pumpkin flavor.

Salt (½ teaspoon) and Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon)

Seasoning balances sweetness from the pumpkin purée and enhances overall taste with just enough spice.

Vegetable Oil (for frying)

A neutral oil with a high smoke point ensures even frying to achieve golden-brown crispiness without altering flavor.

Ingredient close-up

# Instructions:

This section guides you through making crispy pumpkin cheese balls from start to finish with clear instructions for best results in texture and taste.

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture

Begin by combining one cup of smooth pumpkin purée with shredded mozzarella cheese in a mixing bowl. Add grated Parmesan along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Crack in one large egg to help bind everything together. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined into a sticky but workable dough-like consistency suitable for shaping.

Step 2: Shape Into Balls

Scoop approximately one tablespoon of the mixture at a time using your hands or a small spoon. Roll each portion between your palms to form uniform balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking during preparation before cooking.

Step 3: Coat with Breadcrumbs

Pour breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Carefully roll each formed ball through the breadcrumbs until fully coated on all sides. This breadcrumb layer will turn golden brown and crisp up nicely during cooking, providing texture contrast to the soft filling inside these cheesy snacks.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Gently place coated balls into hot oil without overcrowding to maintain temperature stability. Fry each batch for about three to four minutes or until they turn golden brown evenly on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked balls onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Allow crispy pumpkin cheese balls to cool slightly before serving so the melted cheese inside sets just enough but remains gooey when bitten into. These are perfect served as appetizers alongside dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli for added flavor contrast.