Description
These Super Crispy Halloumi Cheese Bites are a delightful snack or appetizer featuring salty, melty halloumi coated in a crunchy panko and sesame seed crust, then oven-baked to golden perfection. Served with pepper jelly or chili sauce for a sweet and spicy contrast, these bites are easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining or a tasty treat.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 pound halloumi cheese (450 grams)
Breading
- 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (100 grams)
- 2 Tablespoons sesame seeds (15 grams)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (50 grams)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 Tablespoon whole milk or water (15 milliliters)
For Baking
- Olive oil or olive oil cooking spray (as needed)
To Serve
- Pepper jelly or chili sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Halloumi: Slice the halloumi cheese into 1-inch cubes with a sharp knife. Then, dry the cubes thoroughly using a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
- Set Up Dredging Station: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Place the flour in a small separate bowl. In another small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk or water until smooth.
- Coat the Cheese: Working in batches, toss the halloumi cubes in the flour until fully coated, tapping off any excess. Next, dip the floured cubes into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and then coat them evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated halloumi cubes on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer. Drizzle olive oil over them or spray with olive oil cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake the Halloumi: Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the cubes to ensure even cooking and crispness. Continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the exterior is golden and crispy and the center is soft and melty.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the crispy halloumi bites immediately with red pepper jelly or chili sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delicious, savory snack while warm.
Notes
- Drying the halloumi thoroughly before coating is crucial for crispiness.
- You can substitute whole milk with water or any plant-based milk if preferred.
- Use a light drizzle or spray of olive oil for healthier crisping instead of deep frying.
- These bites are best served fresh and warm to maintain their crispy texture.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
