These jalapeño cheddar corn dogs are a spicy twist on a classic fair food favorite. Juicy hot dogs are coated in a flavorful jalapeño cheddar cornmeal batter and fried to crispy perfection. Perfect for a fun snack or a party treat!
Ingredients
- For the Corn Dogs:
- 8 hot dogs
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For Serving (optional):
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Hot Dogs:
- Pat the hot dogs dry with paper towels. Insert wooden skewers into each hot dog, leaving enough of the stick exposed to hold.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Stir in the chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk together. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
- Coat and Fry the Corn Dogs:
- Dip each hot dog into the batter, coating it completely. Allow any excess batter to drip off.
- Carefully lower the coated hot dogs into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the corn dogs for 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the corn dogs from the oil and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve the jalapeño cheddar corn dogs hot with ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your spicy, cheesy, and crispy corn dogs!