Crispy Cheesy Mozzarella Bites (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cheese Bites

01 - 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
02 - 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1 1/2 cups (150g) seasoned breadcrumbs
05 - 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasonings

06 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ For Cooking

09 - Vegetable oil for frying, or cooking spray for baking

# Instructions:

01 - Cut each mozzarella stick into 3 equal pieces and place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from melting too quickly during cooking.
02 - Put flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt in a third bowl.
03 - Coat each frozen cheese piece in flour, then dip in egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick. For extra crunch, dip in egg and breadcrumbs a second time.
04 - Place the breaded cheese bites on a baking sheet and freeze for another 15-20 minutes to make sure they won't melt during cooking.
05 - For frying: Heat oil to 350°F and fry in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden. For baking: Bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes after spraying with cooking spray.
06 - Enjoy immediately with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip.

# Notes:

01 - Double-coating the cheese bites makes them extra crunchy
02 - Add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version
03 - The freezing steps are crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly