Classic Homemade Corn Dogs 🌭
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Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and wrapped around a juicy hot dog, these homemade corn dogs taste just like the ones from the fair.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8 corn dogs
Ingredients
Corn Dogs
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 wooden skewers
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Pat the hot dogs completely dry with paper towels.
- Insert a wooden skewer into each hot dog.
- Lightly dust each hot dog with flour so the batter sticks better.
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Pepper
In another bowl, whisk:
- Egg
- Buttermilk
- Melted butter
- Honey (if using)
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Heat the Oil
- Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Coat the Hot Dogs
- Pour the batter into a tall drinking glass or mason jar.
- Dip each floured hot dog into the batter, turning to coat completely.
- Lift out slowly, allowing any excess batter to drip off.
5. Fry
- Carefully lower each battered hot dog into the hot oil.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly golden brown.
- Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Dipping Sauces
- Classic yellow mustard
- Ketchup
- Honey mustard
- Spicy mayo
- Ranch dressing
- Cheese sauce
- Barbecue sauce
Air Fryer Version
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Use frozen corn dogs (fresh batter won’t set properly in an air fryer).
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until heated through and crisp.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds (the coating will be softer).
Tips for Perfect Corn Dogs
- Dry the hot dogs well before dipping them in batter.
- Keep the oil close to 350°F (175°C) for a crisp exterior without becoming greasy.
- Fry only a few at a time to maintain the oil temperature.
- A tall glass makes it much easier to coat the hot dogs evenly.
Enjoy these golden, crispy corn dogs with fries, potato wedges, coleslaw, or a simple side salad for a fun, family-friendly meal! 🌭