Description
Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are a fiery twist on the classic fried cheese snack. String cheese sticks are coated in flour, dipped in egg wash, then coated in a crunchy mixture of crushed Hot Cheetos and breadcrumbs before being deep-fried to a crispy, golden perfection. These spicy, gooey treats are perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 8 oz string cheese (about 8 sticks)
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed Hot Cheetos (about 3 cups whole)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough for about 1 inch deep)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Unwrap the string cheese sticks and place them on a plate. To prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying, freeze the sticks for about 30 minutes before breading.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, beat the 2 large eggs thoroughly. In a third bowl, combine the crushed Hot Cheetos and plain breadcrumbs, mixing evenly.
- Bread the Cheese Sticks: Remove the cheese sticks from the freezer. First, dredge each stick in flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, covering completely. Finally, roll and press the stick into the Hot Cheeto and breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. For an extra crispy exterior, repeat the egg and crumb coating one more time for a double layer.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy to prevent soggy or burnt sticks.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Carefully add the breaded cheese sticks into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 1.5 to 2 minutes or until the coating is golden and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently for even cooking on all sides.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried sticks with tongs and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and gooey, with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
Notes
- Freezing the string cheese before breading helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking during frying.
- Double coating the sticks in egg and crumbs results in a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Keep the oil temperature steady around 350°F to ensure crispy sticks without burning.
- Serve hot to enjoy the melted cheese center and crunchy exterior at their best.
- You can substitute Hot Cheetos with any spicy flavored chips if preferred.
