Korean Cheese Balls Recipe

Name: Korean Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1/2 cup all purpose flour; 1/4 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 10 g melted butter; 85 ml hot water; 1 beaten egg; 1 cup golden breadcrumbs; 100 g mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon Parsley optional

April 26, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

The Korean Cheese Balls recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks that enhance their crispy, gooey goodness. Serve them with a side of pickled vegetables like kimchi or pickled radishes to add a tangy, refreshing contrast. A light, spicy dipping sauce such as cheddar’s honey hot sauce elevates the flavor, providing a satisfying kick. For a balanced meal, pair the cheese balls with a fresh cucumber salad or a bowl of steamed edamame.

You may have heard of Korean Cheese Balls, but if you haven’t tried making them yourself, you are truly missing out. Ever since I first tasted these delightful bites, I’ve been hooked. They are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Trust me, bringing these to a gathering will have your friends begging for the recipe.

Why are they so special? For starters, the combination of soft mozzarella cheese and the crunchy breadcrumbs creates a wonderful contrast. Besides that, you can customize them to fit your taste. Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer things milder, there’s room for creativity here.

Throughout my kitchen adventures, I’ve learned the ropes on how to maximize the impact of each ingredient involved. Let’s break down the star players in this recipe, one by one, and I’ll share how they’ve become essential in my home cooking.

Ingredients that Make the Magic Happen

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of Korean Cheese Balls:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This is our base. It helps bind the other ingredients together, creating a sturdy yet fluffy texture.
1/4 tbsp baking powder: Here’s the trick: This ingredient gives the cheese balls a little lift, making them airy rather than dense.
1 tsp brown sugar: Just a hint of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the cheese. It’s crucial for flavor depth.
1/2 tsp salt: Salt elevates all the flavors in the dish. Without it, the cheese would taste flat.
10g melted butter: The richness of butter not only adds flavor but also aids in achieving that beautiful golden color when baking.
85 ml hot water: It activates the baking powder and helps bring the dough together seamlessly.
1 beaten egg: This acts as a binding agent, helping the cheese balls hold their shape while cooking.
1 cup golden breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs provide the all-important crunchy coating that contrasts with the melty cheese inside.
100g mozzarella cheese (cut into bite-size cubes): The star of this dish! Gooey, stretchy mozzarella is what makes these cheese balls irresistible.
1 tsp parsley (optional): Adding a touch of freshness. Plus, it’s a colorful garnish when serving!

Let’s keep the ball rolling and see how to make these delicious treats.

How to Make Korean Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving in, gather all ingredients. This will make your workflow smoother and ensure nothing gets left behind.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended. I always find it helps to use a little elbow grease here. A good mix ensures even distribution, preventing any surprises down the line.

Step 3: Create the Dough

Now, add the melted butter and hot water to the dry mix. Stir until you form a dough. It should be slightly tacky and malleable. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Step 4: Incorporate the Egg

Pour in your beaten egg and mix well. This imparts moisture and binds the ingredients together even more. You’ll want a nice, uniform dough at this point.

Step 5: Shape the Cheese Balls

Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then fold the edges over the cheese, sealing it tightly. Roll it gently into a ball shape. Repeat until all the dough is used.

Step 6: Coat with Breadcrumbs

Grab another bowl and place your breadcrumbs in it. Each cheese ball needs to be coated generously with breadcrumbs. This will help create that crunchy outer layer.

Step 7: Fry or Bake

You can either fry or bake these beauties!

For frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully drop the cheese balls in. Fry until golden brown.

For baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the cheese balls on a lined baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once they are all nice and brown, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, perhaps with a dipping sauce on the side. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Notes

Tip 1: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan if you choose to fry. It reduces the temperature of the oil and can lead to soggy cheese balls.

Tip 2: Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality.

Tip 3: If baking, turn the cheese balls halfway through for even cooking.

Tip 4: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Tip 5: Make ahead! You can keep uncooked cheese balls in the freezer for up to a month. Just freeze them on a tray and then transfer to a zip-top bag.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Korean Cheese Balls:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red chili flakes to the dough for a spicy kick. You could even include sriracha directly in the cheese filling!

Vegetable Cheese Balls: Mix in some finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell pepper into the dough. This boosts the nutrition content while contributing extra flavor.

Herb-Infused Cheese Balls: Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a hint of freshness in the dough.

Sweet Potato Cheese Balls: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with mashed sweet potato for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-packed version.

Cheese Stick Version: Instead of rolling them into balls, you could roll them into cheese sticks. Same concept, different form!

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?
While you can use pre-shredded cheese, I recommend cubing fresh mozzarella. Shredded varieties often have anti-caking agents which can affect melting.

Are these cheese balls freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze them before cooking. Just ensure they are spaced apart on a baking sheet until firm, then store them in an airtight container.

How do I know when they’re done cooking?
For frying, look for a golden brown exterior. If baking, the cheese balls should be golden and firm to the touch. A toothpick can be inserted to check the inside if uncertain.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may differ slightly, but they will still be delicious.

What dipping sauces pair well with Korean Cheese Balls?
Try a sweet chili sauce, spicy mayo, or even a simple soy sauce-based dip for a tasty contrast.

How do I store leftovers?
If you have any left, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven for that crispy texture again.

Wrapping It Up

I hope you’re as excited about making these Korean Cheese Balls as I am! They’re not just food; they’re an experience. More than just a snack, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Every bite reminds me of a gathering with friends and family, sharing laughter and stories.

These cheese balls can elevate your snack game, bringing people together as they savor warm, gooey cheese with that crispy shell. So gather your ingredients and get cooking, because I promise you, this will become a regular feature in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!