1. Prepare the Cheese and Breading Station:

• Slice each mozzarella string cheese stick into 3 or 4 equal bite-sized pieces. Keep the sizes relatively uniform for even cooking.
• Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes lined up:
  • Place the 1 cup of all-purpose flour in the first dish.
  • In the second dish, whisk the 2 large eggs and ¼ cup milk together until smooth.
  • In the third dish, place the 1 cup of Italian bread crumbs (stir in the optional pinch of cayenne pepper here, if using).
• Line a plate or small baking tray with waxed paper or parchment paper.

2. Bread the Mozzarella Bites:

• Working with one piece of mozzarella at a time:
  • Roll it completely in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  • Dip the floured piece fully into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
  • Press the egg-coated piece firmly into the Italian bread crumbs, ensuring it’s completely coated on all sides. Place the breaded bite on the prepared parchment-lined plate/tray.
• Optional Double Coating (for extra crunch): After the first breadcrumb coating, dip the breaded piece back into the egg mixture, let excess drip off, then press it again into the breadcrumbs for a second, thicker coating.
• Repeat with all mozzarella pieces.

3. Freeze Briefly:

• Place the entire plate/tray of breaded mozzarella bites into the freezer for 15–20 minutes. This crucial step helps the breading adhere firmly and prevents the cheese from melting out too quickly during frying. Do not skip!

4. Heat the Frying Oil:

• While the bites freeze, pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or pot.
• Heat the oil over medium to medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on a deep-fry thermometer. (If you don’t have a thermometer, carefully drop a single breadcrumb into the oil – it should sizzle vigorously and turn golden quickly, but not burn instantly). Adjust heat as needed to maintain this temperature.

5. Fry the Cheese Bites:

• Carefully remove the chilled cheese bites from the freezer.
• Working in small batches (do not overcrowd the pan!), gently lower 5–7 breaded mozzarella bites into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon.
• Fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute total, turning gently if needed, just until the breading is golden brown and crispy. Frying happens very quickly!
• Immediately remove the golden bites from the hot oil using a slotted spoon or spider, allowing excess oil to drip off briefly.

6. Drain and Serve:

• Transfer the fried mozzarella bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any remaining excess oil.
• Let them cool slightly for a minute or two (the cheese inside will be extremely hot!).
• Serve warm with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy that cheesy pull!