If you’re looking for a nostalgic yet delicious treat that reminds you of vintage home cooking, this American Cheese Fritters recipe inspired by a 1966 Woman’s Day Encyclopedia cookbook is the perfect pick! Whether you’re preparing for a game day snack or just craving a warm, cheesy bite, these fritters will not disappoint. This blog post will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring that you’ll have crispy, cheesy fritters to enjoy in no time.
- The Perfect Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich: A Seasonal Delight
- TikTok Cucumber Salad: The Viral Sensation You Need to Try!
- Amish Pear Butter Recipe: A Taste of Tradition
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe is simple yet flavorful, using basic ingredients like biscuit mix, cheese, onion, and egg. The standout feature is the combination of cheeses – Pepper Jack and cheddar – which provides a nice balance of creaminess and a subtle kick without needing hot sauce. It’s an excellent alternative to mozzarella sticks or traditional fried cheese dishes, and they’re even more fun to make because of how they puff up in the oil!
Ingredients for American Cheese Fritters
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 2 cups biscuit mix (I recommend Southern Biscuit Mix for the best results)
- 1 ½ cups cheese (Pepper Jack and cheddar, cubed)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon minced green onion
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Oil for frying (Vegetable oil works best)
For serving:
- Tart jelly (strawberry, cherry, or red currant jelly is ideal, but you can try your favorite flavor)
- Optional dipping sauces (ranch, blue cheese, or even a red pepper jelly)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the Onion
Start by chopping the green onion finely. The recipe calls for one tablespoon of minced onion, which adds just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the fritters. Dice it into small pieces to ensure it blends smoothly into the batter.
Cube the Cheese
While the original recipe suggests using American cheese, this version uses a combination of Pepper Jack and cheddar for a more robust flavor profile. Cut the cheeses into small cubes. If you want to keep things traditional, feel free to use processed American cheese.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, crack an egg and whisk it together with the milk. This will be the base for your batter.
3. Add the Biscuit Mix
Next, add 2 cups of biscuit mix to the wet ingredients. If you’re using Southern Biscuit Mix, this will give your fritters the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have it on hand, any self-rising biscuit mix will work. Stir the mixture well to combine.
Tip: If you prefer making your own biscuit mix, combine self-rising flour, baking powder, and a fat like butter or shortening.
4. Add the Flavor Boosters
Worcestershire Sauce
Add one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the batter. This adds a depth of flavor and a savory kick that complements the cheese beautifully.
5. Fold in the Cheese and Onion
Gently fold the cubed cheese and minced green onion into the batter. Be sure not to overmix, as this can make the batter too dense. The goal is for the cheese to be distributed evenly, so you get that perfect cheesy bite in every fritter.
6. Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough oil to submerge the fritters. Heat the oil to 310-320°F (lower than the original 365°F recommendation for better results). You want to avoid frying at too high a temperature, as the outside of the fritters will brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked.
7. Fry the Fritters
Using a tablespoon or teaspoon (depending on how large you want the fritters), scoop the batter and gently drop it into the hot oil. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and affect the frying process.
Cooking Tip: If the fritters start flipping over on their own, it’s a good sign! As the batter cooks, it puffs up and naturally turns over in the oil.
Let the fritters cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown. The cheese might ooze out a little, but that’s perfectly okay – everyone loves a bit of fried cheese!
8. Drain and Serve
Once the fritters are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Products we recommend:
- Nostalgia BSET300RETRORED Retro 3-in-1 Family Size Breakfast Station
- Camp Chef Outdoor Camp Oven
- Commercial Countertop Hot Plate
The Perfect Pairing: Tart Jelly
Traditionally, these cheese fritters are served with tart jelly, which adds a sweet contrast to the savory fritters. A mixture of strawberry, cherry, red currant, and raspberry jelly works wonderfully. Just dollop some jelly on the side of your plate and dip each fritter for a delightful flavor combination.
Experiment with Dipping Sauces
While tart jelly is the classic choice, there’s no limit to the kinds of dipping sauces you can pair with these fritters. Here are some ideas to try:
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy dip that complements the heat from the Pepper Jack cheese.
- Blue Cheese Dip: If you love bold, tangy flavors, blue cheese is a fantastic option.
- Red Pepper Jelly: For those who like a bit of sweetness with a kick, red pepper jelly adds just the right amount of heat.
- Sour Cream and Onion Dip: A rich, tangy dip that brings out the oniony goodness in the fritters.
Tips for Making the Best Cheese Fritters
- Temperature Control: One of the key elements to successful fritters is frying at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the fritters will brown too quickly on the outside and remain doughy in the center. Aim for a steady 310-320°F.
- Cheese Variety: Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheeses! While Pepper Jack and cheddar are suggested in this recipe, you can use mozzarella, Gouda, or even a sharp provolone for a different twist.
- Biscuit Mix: If you’re unable to find Southern Biscuit Mix, you can easily make your own or use Bisquick. However, Southern Biscuit Mix provides a fluffier texture and a more authentic biscuit flavor.
- Batch Frying: Fry the fritters in small batches so the oil stays at a consistent temperature. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking.
- Reuse the Oil: You can reuse the oil for another round of frying as long as you strain it to remove any leftover bits of cheese or onion.
- FOR MORE RECIPES
- BAKED GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN AND POTATOES
- THE BEST CROCK POT CHICKEN EVER
- CROCK POT CHICKEN TORTELLINI SOUP
Perfect Occasions for American Cheese Fritters
These fritters are not only quick to make but also a hit at any gathering. Here are a few ideas for when to whip up a batch:
- Game Day Snacks: Serve these cheesy delights at your next sports-watching party. Your guests will love how easy they are to grab and dip.
- Family Get-Togethers: Whether it’s a holiday meal or a simple family gathering, these fritters make a great appetizer or side dish.
- Breakfast or Brunch: With their savory biscuit-like interior, these fritters pair well with eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.
- Potlucks: Surprise your friends at the next potluck with this unique recipe. They’re sure to be the star of the table!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will), store the fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use an air fryer to regain that crispy exterior.
Final Thoughts
These American Cheese Fritters are a fun, flavorful twist on traditional cheese snacks. With a crispy exterior, a soft biscuit-like interior, and gooey cheese throughout, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy them at any time of the day. So next time you’re feeling nostalgic or just want a quick snack, give this classic recipe a try!
