Crispy Cottage Cheese Balls with Caramel

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, sugar, vanilla sugar, and baking soda that has been activated with lemon juice.

Using an immersion blender, blend the ingredients until smooth.

Next, gently stir in the flour until just combined.

It should form a homogeneous mixture that you can shape into balls.

With your hands lightly dusted with flour, take portions of the mixture and form them into small balls, about 40 grams (1.4 oz) each. You should get around 15 balls.

Ensure that the balls are well shaped and evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Set them aside while you heat your oil.

In a deep skillet or pot, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.

Once hot, carefully drop in the cheese balls, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry them until they are golden brown, turning occasionally for even coloration.

This process should take about 3-5 minutes; keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, water, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).

Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Allow it to boil without stirring until it turns a rich caramel color, about 10-15 minutes.

Be cautious, as caramel can easily burn; keep a close watch on it!

Once your cheese balls are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Skewer the cheese balls with wooden sticks or toothpicks.

Dip each ball into the freshly made caramel sauce and let the excess drip off.

The caramel will set as it cools, creating a delicious coating.

Serve the crispy cottage cheese balls warm and enjoy this delightful treat!

They are perfect for sharing at gatherings, snack time, or as a sweet dessert.