There’s something undeniably special about corn fritters. They’re crispy, golden, and packed with juicy bursts of sweet corn, making them the ultimate comfort food. But when you take them to the next level by pairing them with a creamy, zesty elote dip, you get a dish that’s not just delicious but downright addictive. These fritters are inspired by Mexican street corn (elote)—that irresistible combination of corn, mayo, lime, chili powder, and cheese. Instead of eating it off the cob, we’re transforming those bold flavors into crispy, cheesy bites that are perfect for dipping. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or even a side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. What’s even better? They’re super easy to make and come together in under 30 minutes! You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just a few pantry staples and a skillet.
Why You’ll Love These Corn fritters recipe
- Crispy Outside, Cheesy Inside – The perfect balance of crunch and softness.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Bold Flavor – Sweet corn, cheddar, garlic, and a hint of spice make every bite pop.
- Versatile – Serve as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
- Reheats Well – Stays crispy when warmed in an oven or air fryer.
How Long Does It Take to Make These Corn fritters recipe?
One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is. In just 25 minutes, you can go from mixing the batter to enjoying crispy, golden fritters fresh out of the pan. Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 12 fritters (serves 4-6)
This makes it the perfect last-minute snack or easy appetizer when you need something delicious in a hurry.
What You’ll Need to Make Corn fritters recipe
For the Elote Dip:
- ½ cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- ½ cup mayonnaise – Helps create a rich and smooth texture.
- Juice of 1 lime – Brings a fresh, zesty kick.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a subtle smoky taste, mimicking grilled corn.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances all the flavors.
For the Corn Fritters:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 cups corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
- Vegetable oil
For Garnishing:
- Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese – Adds a salty, crumbly topping.
- Fresh cilantro – Brightens up the dish with fresh, herby flavor.
- Extra lime wedges – For an extra burst of citrusy freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make this Corn fritters recipe
1. Prepare the Elote Dip
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—sometimes I add an extra squeeze of lime for more tanginess. Place the dip in the refrigerator while you make the fritters. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious.
2. Mix the Fritter Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne. Once combined, gradually add the flour and baking powder, stirring until there are no dry spots. The batter should be thick but not too stiff. Now, fold in the corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives or green onions. This step is important because you want the batter to hold together well while still keeping the corn and cheese evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the fritters dense instead of light and fluffy.
3. Heat the Oil
Pour about ¼ inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a tiny bit of batter into the pan—it should sizzle immediately. If the oil is too hot, the fritters will brown too quickly without cooking through, so keep the heat at medium for even frying.
4. Fry the Fritters
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop 2-tablespoon portions of batter into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon. Cook each fritter for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil if necessary between batches.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the warm, crispy fritters on a serving plate. Sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and serve with the elote dip on the side. Squeeze extra lime over the top for an extra layer of brightness. These are best served fresh, while they’re still hot and crispy!
How to Serve This Corn fritters recipe
These crispy, golden corn fritters are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a cozy family dinner, or simply looking for a quick snack, these fritters fit the bill. The best way to enjoy them is fresh out of the pan, while they’re still hot and crispy, paired with the creamy and zesty elote dip. But if you want to elevate the dish even further, here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Serve as a party appetizer with a side of guacamole and salsa.
- Pair with a grilled protein like chicken, steak, or shrimp for a balanced meal.
- Add to a brunch spread alongside eggs and fresh fruit.
- Enjoy with a side salad for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly meal.
These corn fritters are so flavorful that they don’t need much to shine, but with a few creative twists, you can turn them into a show-stopping dish that everyone will love!
Tips for the Best Corn Fritters
Making perfect corn fritters isn’t difficult, but a few small details can make a huge difference in achieving the best texture and flavor. Here are some pro tips to ensure success every time:
- Use Fresh or Frozen Corn for the Best Flavor – While canned corn can work in a pinch, fresh corn cut straight from the cob has a much sweeter, crunchier texture. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir everything together just until combined. Overmixing will develop too much gluten, making the fritters dense instead of light and crispy.
- Adjust the Oil Temperature Carefully – The key to crispy fritters is frying at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked. If it’s too cold, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy. A good test is dropping a small spoonful of batter into the pan—if it sizzles immediately but doesn’t brown too fast, your oil is ready.
- Drain the Fritters on a Wire Rack – Instead of placing the fritters directly on paper towels, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This prevents them from getting soggy and keeps them crispy for longer.
- Reheat Properly to Keep Them Crispy – If you’re making these ahead or saving leftovers, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes instead of microwaving. This will restore their crispiness!
Recipe Variations: Customize Your Corn Fritters!
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to spice things up, make it gluten-free, or add more cheesy goodness, there are so many fun ways to tweak the recipe. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Spicy Jalapeño Fritters: If you love a little heat, add ½ cup finely diced jalapeños to the batter.
- Extra Cheesy Fritters: Want gooey, melty fritters? Swap half the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack,
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
- Mexican Street Corn Style: Mix in ½ teaspoon Tajín seasoning and ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese into the batter for an authentic elote-inspired taste. Serve with a sprinkle of chili powder and fresh lime juice.
- Vegan Corn Fritters: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), use dairy-free cheese, and substitute the milk with almond or oat milk. Fry them as usual, and they’ll still be crispy and flavorful!
Storing & Reheating: Keeping Your Fritters Fresh
If you’re lucky enough to have leftover fritters, they store really well and can be easily reheated to taste just as crispy as when they were first made. Here’s how to properly store and reheat them:
-
Fridge:
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They last up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven/Air Fryer – Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Microwave – Not recommended, as they’ll lose their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Corn fritters recipe
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the fritters at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before frying.
What’s the best way to keep the fritters warm for a party?
Place them on a wire rack in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish frying the rest. This keeps them warm and crispy until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
These Corn Fritters with Elote Dip are crispy, cheesy, and full of bold flavors that make them completely irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. The combination of golden, crunchy fritters and the cool, tangy elote dip creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—if you make these, tag me on Instagram or leave a comment below! Happy cooking! 😍🌽
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Crispy Corn Fritters with Elote Dip – Easy & Delicious
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters (serves 4-6)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with sweet corn, these corn fritters with elote dip are the perfect appetizer or snack. Quick to make and full of bold flavors, they pair beautifully with a creamy, smoky dip inspired by Mexican street corn (elote).
Ingredients
✅ 2 large eggs
✅ ½ cup whole milk
✅ ¾ cup all-purpose flour
✅ 1 teaspoon baking powder
✅ ½ teaspoon salt
✅ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✅ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✅ ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
✅ 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
✅ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✅ 2 tablespoons chopped chives
✅ Vegetable oil (for frying)
📌 For the Elote Dip:
✅ ½ cup sour cream
✅ ½ cup mayonnaise
✅ Juice of 1 lime
✅ ½ teaspoon chili powder
✅ ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
✅ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✅ ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dip – Mix sour cream, mayo, lime juice, and spices. Refrigerate.
2️⃣ Prepare the Batter – Whisk eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, salt, garlic, and pepper. Fold in corn, cheese, and chives.
3️⃣ Heat the Oil – Add ¼ inch of vegetable oil to a skillet over medium heat.
4️⃣ Fry the Fritters – Drop 2-tablespoon portions of batter into the pan. Flatten slightly and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with queso fresco, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve with elote dip.
Notes
✅Use fresh corn for extra sweetness and crunch.
✅ Keep fritters warm in a 200°F oven while frying the rest.
✅ Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes to keep crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired