Linda CainBefore diving into the deliciousness of Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts, let’s talk about what pairs well with them. These bites of joy thrive on contrast. Think crispy celery sticks dipped in blue cheese dressing for a cooling effect. Or, how about some tangy carrot sticks that lend a mild sweetness?
If you’re feeling festive, serving them with a light and zesty salad can balance out the spicy bite. And don’t forget the drinks! I recommend a cold, crisp lager or a mild lemonade to wash it all down. The juxtaposition of flavors makes the Buffalo Blasts shine.
Let’s set the scene. You’re at your favorite restaurant, and the waiter brings out an appetizer that makes your mouth water just looking at it. Imagine the joy on your face.
That’s precisely how I felt the first time I tried Cheesecake Factory’s Buffalo Blasts. They looked irresistible, and I quickly realized I was in for a treat. These flavorful, crispy bites are a burst of chicken and cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy shell.
They’ve got a kick of spice that dances on your palate while also offering a creamy, cheesy satisfaction. So, stay with me, and let’s dig deeper into the world of Buffalo Blasts.
What Are Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts?
Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts are a fan-favorite appetizer that combines shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and a zesty buffalo wing sauce—wrapped in wonton skins and then deep-fried to perfection.
When served hot, the outside is crispy, while the inside is a deliciously gooey mixture of flavors that brings that much-loved buffalo wing taste to a whole new level.
They are often served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping. It’s comfort food at its finest, and once you’ve had one, it’s hard to stop there.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine biting into something crispy and golden, with a hint of spice that quickly tailors into rich, creamy cheese. The Buffalo sauce adds a proprietary zing that keeps you reaching for more. The savory filling—enriched by the chicken and mozzarella—is satisfying yet invigorating.
Each component plays nicely together, leaving you with a warm, comforting feeling while also igniting your taste buds. It’s like a party dance where the flavors interact in complete harmony.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
Let’s break down why this recipe is a surefire winner:
1. Perfect Flavor Balance
The combination of buffalo wing sauce and cheese is a classic. The spicy, tangy notes of the sauce contrast wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella. This recipe captures that balance in every bite. It’s exciting without being overwhelming. I’ve made sure the flavor is spot on.
2. Easy-to-Follow Steps
Creating these Buffalo Blasts at home is a breeze. The steps are straightforward, making it easy even for beginners to muster up the courage to throw on an apron. You might even become the family’s go-to chef after this.
3. Versatility
If you have different favorite cheeses or dips, feel free to switch things up! The recipe allows for various ingredients. You can try different sauces—maybe a ranch to get a milder taste or a hotter sauce if you dare.
4. Customizable Serving Options
You can serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as a main course, depending on how many you make. They’re perfect for gatherings or as a cozy night-in treat.
Ingredients for Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these tasty bites:
- 8 7-inch square wonton wrappers
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 3 cups Hooters Wing Breading (or similar)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 4 cups canola or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Celery sticks (for serving)
- Blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by mixing the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, buffalo wing sauce, smoked paprika, and chopped green onions in a large bowl. This blend forms the filling for your Buffalo Blasts.
Step 2: Set Up Wonton Wrappers
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and cold water to create an egg wash. You’ll use this to seal your wonton wrappers. Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface.
Step 3: Assemble the Blasts
Place about a spoonful of the filling mixture in the center of each wonton wrapper. Use a brush or your finger to apply the egg wash around the edges of the wrapper. This helps it stick when you fold it over.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the wonton wrapper over the filling to create a triangle or a pocket shape. Press down firmly to seal the edges tightly. Repeat until you have used all the wrappers.
Step 5: Dredge in Breading
In a shallow dish, combine the Hooters Wing Breading with cornstarch and kosher salt. Take each sealed wonton and roll it into the breading mixture until fully coated.
Step 6: Heat Oil
In a large pot, heat the canola or vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. A good test is to drop in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry.
Step 7: Fry the Blasts
Gently drop a few Buffalo Blasts into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat this step for all the blasts.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Buffalo Blasts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve them hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.
Notes
Here are some tips for making the most of your Buffalo Blasts:
- Always keep the oil temperature consistent. Too low, and they’ll absorb oil; too high, and you risk burning them.
- Consider making a large batch and freezing extras. You can reheat them in an air fryer for crispiness.
- Try varying the sauce. Experiment with different heat levels to make them suit your preference better.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature is accurate.
- If you want to bake instead of fry, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place them on a baking sheet.
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you find yourself with some leftovers, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days.
To reheat, use an air fryer for the best results. It will help restore that crispy texture without further frying them.
Sides for Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts
Enhance your meal with these great sides:
1. Crunchy Celery Sticks
Nothing complements the spice of Buffalo Blasts like fresh celery sticks. They are refreshing and cool, balancing the heat perfectly.
2. Blue Cheese Dip
A classic side, blue cheese adds a tangy richness. It’s the perfect dipping companion that many people adore.
3. Light Salad
A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will also help cleanse your palate between bites. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and slices of cucumber for crunch.
4. Potato Wedges
For a heartier option, serve these crispy potato wedges. They can be seasoned to match the flavors of the Buffalo Blasts for a cohesive meal.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Sometimes, ingredients aren’t readily available. Here are some alternatives:
1. Wonton Wrappers
If you can’t find wonton wrappers, egg roll wrappers work just as well. Just adjust the size of the filling accordingly.
2. Chicken
Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver. You can easily grab one from the store for quick preparation.
3. Cheese Choices
While mozzarella is classic, you can use cheddar, or pepper jack for added spice. Each will change the flavor slightly but deliciously.
4. Hot Sauce
Try sriracha or any other preferred hot sauce. The flavor profile will shift, providing you with varied options.
Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts Recipe
Equipment
- shallow dish
Ingredients
- 8 7 ” square wonton wrappers
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 3 cups Hooters Wing Breading
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 4 cups canola or vegetable oil for frying
- Celery sticks for serving
- Blue cheese dressing for dipping
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the filling
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions for added freshness and color
Instructions
- Start by mixing the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, buffalo wing sauce, smoked paprika, and chopped green onions in a large bowl. This blend forms the filling for your Buffalo Blasts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and cold water to create an egg wash. You’ll use this to seal your wonton wrappers. Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface.
- Place about a spoonful of the filling mixture in the center of each wonton wrapper. Use a brush or your finger to apply the egg wash around the edges of the wrapper. This helps it stick when you fold it over.
- Carefully fold the wonton wrapper over the filling to create a triangle or a pocket shape. Press down firmly to seal the edges tightly. Repeat until you have used all the wrappers.
- In a shallow dish, combine the Hooters Wing Breading with cornstarch and kosher salt. Take each sealed wonton and roll it into the breading mixture until fully coated.
- In a large pot, heat the canola or vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. A good test is to drop in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry.
- Gently drop a few Buffalo Blasts into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat this step for all the blasts.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Buffalo Blasts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve them hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.
Notes
- Always keep the oil temperature consistent. Too low, and they’ll absorb oil; too high, and you risk burning them.
- Consider making a large batch and freezing extras. You can reheat them in an air fryer for crispiness.
- Try varying the sauce. Experiment with different heat levels to make them suit your preference better.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature is accurate.
- If you want to bake instead of fry, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place them on a baking sheet.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Making Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts at home might just be the best decision you’ve made all week. The combination of crunchy wrappers housing flavorful filling topped with your favorite sauces makes for an unforgettable dish. You can impress your friends at gatherings or enjoy a cozy night with a delicious snack.
Plus, with the versatility of the recipe, you’ll never run out of options to switch things up. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the cooking adventure begin! Trust me; they will disappear faster than you think. Happy cooking!
