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Mozzarella cheese has long held a special place in the hearts of cheese lovers around the world. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect base for a variety of culinary creations, from classic Caprese salads to indulgent pizzas. However, when it comes to snacks and appetizers, few dishes rival the allure of mozzarella sticks. Enter the Golden Crunch Mozzarella Twirls—a delightful twist on the traditional cheese stick that adds an element of fun and creativity to your gatherings, movie nights, or casual get-togethers. With the added benefit of air frying, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to the deep-fried versions while still delivering the satisfying crunch and gooeyness that mozzarella is known for.

Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Discover the joy of making Golden Crunch Mozzarella Twirls, a fun and delicious snack that's perfect for any occasion. With air frying, enjoy an irresistible crispy exterior and gooey interior without the excess oil. These mozzarella twirls are easy to prepare, using high-quality mozzarella, flavorful spices, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Great for parties or movie nights, they blend nostalgia and creativity for an enjoyable treat everyone will love. Enjoy guilt-free snacking at home!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz mozzarella cheese sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions
 

Prep the Cheese: Begin by cutting each mozzarella stick in half to create 24 equal pieces. Place the pieces on a plate and freeze them for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it firms up the cheese and helps to prevent it from melting too quickly during the air frying process.

    Create the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls on your countertop. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, pour in the beaten eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling adventurous). Mix them together until evenly distributed.

      Bread the Cheese Sticks: Take a frozen mozzarella piece and first coat it in the flour, ensuring to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully covered. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing it to ensure the coating adheres well. Repeat this process for all mozzarella pieces until fully breaded.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it preheats, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

          Arrange and Spray: Carefully place the breaded mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch (you may need to do this in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the cheese sticks with cooking spray for that extra crunch.

            Cook: Air fry the mozzarella twirls for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. Keep an eye on them; you're looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture. Cooking times may vary based on your specific air fryer model, so adjust accordingly.

              Serve: Once cooked, remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for delightful dipping!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the hot mozzarella twirls on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or a few fresh basil leaves for added color and a gourmet touch. Serve with the marinara sauce in a small bowl for dipping. Enjoy!