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Crispy Small Batch Onion Rings with Cream Cheese Centers

crispy small batch onion rings - featured image

These crispy small batch onion rings feature a golden crunchy exterior with a smooth, creamy cream cheese center, perfect for a quick snack or party treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large yellow onion, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rings
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%; dairy-free milk for vegan option)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (enough to fill a deep pan about 2 inches deep)
  • Optional for serving: ranch dressing or spicy ketchup
  • Optional for garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Carefully separate the onion slices into individual rings, aiming for about 12–15 rings. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Fill each onion ring center with about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese using a small spoon or piping bag. Set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg and milk together. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined; lumps are okay.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain temperature.
  6. Dip each cream cheese-filled onion ring into the batter, letting excess drip off. Fry in batches of 3–4 rings for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove rings with a slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and keep crispy.
  8. Let cool for a minute or two before serving.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) for best results. Do not overcrowd the pan. Dry onion rings thoroughly before battering. Soften cream cheese but do not let it melt. If batter thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen. For extra grip, dust cream cheese-filled rings lightly with flour before dipping in batter.

Nutrition

Keywords: onion rings, cream cheese, crispy snack, fried onion rings, small batch, easy snack, party food