Corn dogs are a classic American snack featuring juicy hot dogs coated in a crispy, golden cornmeal batter and deep-fried to perfection. These handheld treats are a favorite at fairs, carnivals, and parties. With their crunchy exterior and savory interior, corn dogs are a delicious and nostalgic comfort food that can be enjoyed anytime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make at home with simple ingredients
- Crispy, golden coating with a soft, savory center
- Perfect for parties, game nights, and family gatherings
- Can be made with different types of hot dogs or sausages
- Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Hot dogs
- Cornmeal
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Sugar
- Salt
- Milk or buttermilk
- Egg
- Honey (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Wooden skewers
Directions
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Insert wooden skewers into the hot dogs, leaving enough to hold as a handle.
- In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix milk (or buttermilk), egg, and honey until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a tall glass to make dipping easier.
- Dip each skewered hot dog into the batter, ensuring an even coat.
- Carefully lower the coated hot dog into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel. Repeat with the remaining hot dogs.
- Serve warm with ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 corn dogs
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Cheese-Stuffed Corn Dogs: Insert a strip of cheese inside the hot dog before coating.
- Spicy Corn Dogs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter.
- Mini Corn Dogs: Cut hot dogs into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal.
- Air-Fried Corn Dogs: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes instead of deep frying.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover corn dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked corn dogs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I bake corn dogs instead of frying them?
Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
What type of hot dogs should I use?
Any type works, but all-beef or turkey hot dogs provide great flavor.
How do I prevent the batter from sliding off?
Make sure the hot dogs are dry before dipping, and roll them lightly in flour before coating.
Can I use pancake mix instead of homemade batter?
Yes, but add cornmeal for better texture and flavor.
How do I keep the corn dogs crispy?
Serve immediately or reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Stir before using.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I use wooden skewers or popsicle sticks?
Yes, both work, but make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the corn dogs.
Are corn dogs suitable for kids?
Yes, they are a kid-friendly snack, but ensure proper supervision when serving with skewers.
What are the best dipping sauces for corn dogs?
Classic options include ketchup and mustard, but you can also try honey mustard, ranch, or cheese sauce.
Conclusion
Homemade corn dogs are a fun and delicious treat that brings the flavors of the fair right to your kitchen. With their crispy, golden batter and juicy center, they are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether served as a snack, party food, or a special meal, these corn dogs are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try this recipe today and savor the perfect balance of crunch and flavor!
Print
A simple, delicious homemade pizza loaded with gooey cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Roll out pizza dough and spread sauce evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Slice and serve hot!
Notes
- Add toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives.
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.