CHEESE-CRUSTED FRIES

Crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy within—these savory fritters combine sweet apples with melty mozzarella, fresh cilantro, and a golden cornflake crust. Lightly spiced and pan-fried to perfection, they’re an unexpected delight: warm, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even a fun brunch item!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average fritter—it’s a surprising fusion of sweet and savory that works beautifully. The natural sweetness of apples pairs perfectly with gooey mozzarella, while black pepper and fresh cilantro add brightness and subtle heat. Coated in crushed cornflakes for extra crunch and pan-fried until golden, these little bites are addictive in the best way.

Perfect for:

Holiday appetizers or cocktail parties

Weekend brunches

Kids’ snacks (they won’t guess the apple!)

Vegetarian gatherings

🍎 "I served these at my fall party," said one home cook. "Guests thought they were potato fritters—but kept coming back when they tasted the apple surprise!" 

Ingredients

500g (about 3 medium) apples, peeled and finely chopped (use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

20g (~¼ cup packed) fresh cilantro, finely chopped

100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded or diced into small cubes

2 cups (40g) corn flakes, lightly crushed (place in a bag and crush with a rolling pin)

Culinary oil (vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil), for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Apples

Peel and finely chop the apples into small, uniform pieces (~¼ inch).

Soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps maintain crispness during frying.

Drain well and pat very dry with a clean kitchen towel—excess moisture causes splattering and soggy fritters.

2. Season the Mixture

In a large bowl:

Combine salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro.

Add the dried apple pieces and toss gently to coat.

3. Add the Cheese

Stir in the mozzarella until evenly distributed.

✅ Pro Tip: Use cold mozzarella—it holds shape better and melts just right when fried. 

The mixture should hold together slightly when pressed, but don’t over-mix.

4. Coat with Corn Flakes

Place the crushed corn flakes in a shallow bowl or plate.

Take small handfuls of the apple-cheese mixture (about 1½ tablespoons each), form into loose patties or balls, and roll gently in the corn flakes to coat all sides.

❗ Don’t pack too tightly—light texture = crispier results. 

✅ Keep hands damp —this prevents sticking. 

5. Fry Until Golden & Crispy

In a deep skillet or fry pan:

Heat oil to 350°F (180°C) —use a thermometer or test with a breadcrumb (it should sizzle immediately).

Carefully place fritters in hot oil, don’t overcrowd (work in batches).

Fry 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until deep golden brown and crisp.

Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep them crispy.

✅ Oil depth: About ½ inch is enough for pan-frying. For deeper frying, use more oil and turn less. 

6. Serve Warm & Delicious

Serve immediately while warm and melty inside.

Great with dipping sauces like:

Spiced yogurt (yogurt + lemon + cumin)

Apple chutney

Honey mustard

Ranch or sriracha mayo

Enjoy as-is or sprinkle with flaky sea salt for contrast.

You Must Know

Dry ingredients thoroughly —wet mixtures fall apart in oil.

Use firm apples —soft ones turn mushy when cooked.

Don’t skip the cornflake coating —it adds essential crunch and structure.

Fry at the right temperature —too cool = greasy; too hot = burnt outside, raw inside.

Best eaten fresh —reheats poorly due to moisture from cheese and fruit.

Storage Tips

Best served immediately.

Leftovers? Reheat in oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

Not recommended for freezing—texture suffers.

Ingredient Substitutions

Apples

Pears or zucchini (squeezed dry)

Similar sweetness or mild veg option

Mozzarella

Cheddar, feta, or vegan cheese

For different melt and flavor

Cilantro

Parsley, mint, or basil

Herbs that pair well with apple

Corn flakes

Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

Crunch alternatives

Oil

Ghee or avocado oil

Higher smoke point options

Serving Suggestions

Arrange on a platter with lemon wedges and dipping sauces.

Great for finger-food buffets or passed hors d'oeuvres.

Pair with a crisp white wine or spiced cider.

Double the batch and freeze uncooked fritters (freeze on tray first, then bag).

Cultural Context

Inspired by global fritter traditions—from Indian pakoras to European apple pancakes—this recipe blends sweet and savory in a playful, modern way. Found at creative kitchens and fusion tables alike, it celebrates bold flavor combinations and the joy of discovering something deliciously unexpected.

Pro Tips

Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for crowds. Freeze uncooked fritters for later.

Want more spice? Add ¼ tsp cayenne or grated ginger to the mix.

Make ahead: Prep and coat fritters up to 2 hours ahead. Keep chilled until frying.

Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.

Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bake them instead of frying?

A: Yes! Spray with oil and bake at 400°F for 15–20 mins, flipping halfway. Less crispy, but lighter.

Q: Why did my fritters fall apart?

A: Likely too wet or not enough binding. Dry apples well and chill mixture 15 mins before shaping.

Q: Is this gluten-free?

A: Only if using GF-certified corn flakes.

Q: Can I make mini versions?

A: Absolutely! Make smaller patties—they cook faster and are perfect for parties.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

A: Yes—but block cheese melts better and has no anti-caking agents.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (mozzarella), wheat (in most corn flakes).

Gluten-free option: Use certified GF corn flakes.

Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.

Always check labels—especially on processed cereals and cheeses.

Nutrition Facts (Per Fritter – Approximate)

Based on 16 fritters

Calories: 90

Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 5g

Protein: 3g

Sodium: 110mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice. 

These fritters don’t shout. They emerge golden from the oil, crisp and inviting, saying everything a great snack should: “Grab me. Share me… maybe.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with apple, cheese, and someone who says, “Let’s make it unforgettable.”