Dessert

Air Fried Babybel Cheese Bites Recipe

BySana Jeannette April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

Introduction

Air fried Babybel cheese rounds make a deliciously crispy and gooey snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crunchy coating and melty center, they are quick to prepare and a fun twist on a classic cheese treat.

Inside a white air fryer basket lined with white parchment paper, there is one layer of golden brown, round breaded pieces, each sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. To the left of the air fryer, on a white marbled surface, sits a small clear glass bowl filled with smooth red dipping sauce. The air fryer lid, which is white, is partially open, showing the crispy textured pieces inside. 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 mixed with milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Dry the unwrapped Babybel cheese rounds thoroughly with a paper towel to remove moisture.
Step 3: Dip each cheese round first in flour, then in the egg wash, followed by the panko mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg wash and panko coating once more.
Step 4: Place the breaded cheese rounds on a tray and freeze for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up the coating.

Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
Step 6: Arrange the cheese rounds in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil, then air fry for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Step 7: Let the cheese rounds rest for 1 to 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and enjoy immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a mild spicy kick.
If you prefer, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serve with marinara sauce, honey mustard, or ranch for dipping options.

Storage

These air fried Babybel cheese rounds are best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispiness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to regain their crunch before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up image of two breaded croquette halves being pulled apart by a pair of hands, revealing smooth and stretchy melted cheese inside. The croquette has a crispy golden brown outer layer with a coarse texture, while the inside is creamy and pale yellow with visible cheese strings stretching between the halves. The background shows a white marbled surface with a few crumbs scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway to crisp both sides.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Freezing the breaded cheese rounds before cooking helps firm up the coating and prevents leakage. Also, double coating with egg and panko creates a sturdy crust that holds the cheese inside.