Dessert

Crispy Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe

ByHarper Ellington April 5, 2026April 5, 2026

Introduction

Air fried Babybel cheese makes a crispy, gooey snack that’s perfect for any cheese lover. This quick and easy recipe combines crunchy breading with melting cheese inside, ready in just under 30 minutes.

The image shows a round white air fryer basket filled with nine round, golden-brown breaded mozzarella sticks. One mozzarella stick is broken open in the center, revealing melted white cheese inside that stretches slightly. Small green herb flakes are sprinkled on top of the breaded sticks, adding a touch of color. In the upper right corner inside the fryer basket, there is a small round white bowl filled with red marinara sauce. The texture of the breading looks crispy, and the white melted cheese contrasts with the golden crust. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 Babybel cheese rounds
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray
Chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Dry unwrapped Babybel cheese rounds with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Dip each cheese round first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, followed by the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Repeat dipping in egg and panko for a second coating.
Step 4: Place the breaded cheese rounds on a tray and freeze for 10–15 minutes to help the coating set.
Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray.
Step 6: Arrange the frozen cheese rounds in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops with olive oil and air fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Step 7: Let the cheese rounds rest for 1–2 minutes after cooking. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serve with marinara, ranch, or honey mustard dips for variety.
Double-coating the cheese rounds helps prevent the cheese from oozing out during air frying.

Storage

Leftover air fried Babybel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes to regain crispiness. Fresh is best, as the coating softens over time.

How to Serve

The image shows a black air fryer basket filled with eight golden brown, crispy breaded mozzarella sticks. One mozzarella stick is broken open in the center, revealing gooey, melted white cheese stretching inside. A small white bowl with red marinara sauce sits in the corner of the basket. The mozzarella sticks have a crunchy texture with some green herbs sprinkled on top. The surface under the air fryer basket has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular frying instead of air frying?

Yes, you can deep-fry or pan-fry the breaded Babybel cheese rounds in hot oil until golden and crispy. Air frying is a healthier alternative that still provides a crunchy exterior.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Freezing the double-coated rounds before cooking helps the coating set and reduces leakage. Also, double dipping in egg and breadcrumbs ensures a thicker crust that holds the cheese in place.