Crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful, Hidden Valley Ranch Cheese Fingers are the ultimate appetizer for every occasion. These indulgent bites combine the creaminess of mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheese with the zesty kick of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, all wrapped in a golden panko crust. Perfectly seasoned and fried to crunchy perfection, they offer a delightful contrast of gooey interior and crispy exterior. With a quick prep time of just 20 minutes, theyβre an easy yet impressive crowd-pleaser. Serve them piping hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a snack that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Keywords: ranch cheese fingers, crispy cheese sticks, easy appetizer recipe, panko crusted cheese, ranch seasoning snacks.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and form it into a small rectangular stick or finger shape. Place the formed fingers on a parchment-lined tray. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Freeze the tray for 15-20 minutes to firm up the fingers.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one containing the flour mixed with salt and black pepper, one containing the beaten eggs, and one containing the panko breadcrumbs.
Once the cheese fingers are firm, remove them from the freezer. Dip each finger first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring each finger is fully coated. Place the breaded fingers onto a clean tray.
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Carefully add a few cheese fingers at a time into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pot. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried cheese fingers from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve the cheese fingers warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Calories |
10724 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1091.5 g | 1399% | |
| Saturated Fat | 216.0 g | 1080% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 779 mg | 260% | |
| Sodium | 4891 mg | 213% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 191.3 g | 70% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.0 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.3 g | ||
| Protein | 131.8 g | 264% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 2645 mg | 203% | |
| Iron | 12.2 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 392 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.