Crispy and Melty Mozzarella Sticks

Soy-free 

There’s a common misconception that vegan cheese doesn’t melt. This recipe proves otherwise. These restaurant-style mozzarella sticks are fairly simple to make and will have you thinking, they can’t possibly be vegan! Serve them dunked into vegan marinara sauce or Ranch Dressing.

Crispy and Melty Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful and popular appetizer, often enjoyed as a crunchy and cheesy treat. These vegan-friendly Mozzarella Sticks offer all the savory goodness of traditional Mozzarella Sticks without any animal products.

The recipe begins by preparing a batch of vegan Mozzarella, which is then sliced into sticks and coated in a double-layer of batter and seasoned bread crumbs. This double-dip technique ensures a crispy and flavorful crust that perfectly complements the creamy interior.

Once the Mozzarella sticks are prepared, they are frozen briefly to firm up, making them easier to handle during frying. When it’s time to fry, the frozen sticks are immersed in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside while the vegan Mozzarella inside melts into a gooey, savory goodness.

These Mozzarella Sticks are served piping hot, often with a side of marinara sauce or a zesty dipping sauce, adding a delightful contrast to the richness of the cheese. Whether you’re enjoying them as a game-day snack, appetizer, or party treat, Crispy and Melty Mozzarella Sticks are a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something cheesy and indulgent.

PREP TIME: 20 minutes, plus prep time for Mozzarella and inactive time for freezing

COOK TIME: about 12 minutes

YIELD: 12 to 15 sticks

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 oz (170 g) vegan Mozzarella (¼ batch)

Batter

• ½ cup (62 g) all-purpose flour
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) water

Bread Crumb Coating

• 1 cup (108 g) vegan standard bread crumbs
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ⅛ tsp ground thyme
• ⅛ tsp ground rosemary
• ¼ tsp ground sage
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1½ tsp (9 g) salt

For Frying

• Canola oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Mozzarella:
   • Slice the vegan Mozzarella into 12 to 15 sticks, each about 2 inches (5 cm) long and ½ inch (1.3 cm) thick.
2. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flour and water to create the batter.
   • In a separate medium-sized bowl, mix together the bread crumb coating ingredients.
   • Dip a piece of Mozzarella into the batter, then coat it with the bread crumb mixture. Repeat, creating a double dip on the Mozzarella stick.
   • Place the coated sticks on a large, wax paper–lined plate.
   • Repeat this process with all the remaining Mozzarella sticks.
   • Place the plate with the coated Mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about an hour to firm them up.
3. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • When ready to fry, pour 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of canola oil into a deep saucepan or pot, or use a deep fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Heat the oil to 350°F (180°C).
   • Working in batches, if necessary, carefully place the frozen Mozzarella sticks into the hot oil.
   • Fry the Mozzarella sticks for about 4 minutes, until they are lightly browned and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure even frying.
   • Once fried, remove the Mozzarella sticks from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a large plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
4. Serve Immediately:
   • Serve the hot and crispy Mozzarella sticks immediately.

TIPS:

• We recommend making the full batch of Mozzarella and saving the rest in the fridge for later.
• You can use an air fryer! Once the mozzarella sticks are frozen, spread them in the air fryer, ensuring they aren’t touching. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. Air fry at 370 to 380°F (188 to 193°C) for 10 to 14 minutes, or until crispy (timing can vary based on your air fryer).