Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Dogs

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If you’re looking for a fun and delicious snack that combines the crunch of cornmeal with the savory taste of cheese and a spicy kick, you’ve come to the right place! These

Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Dogs

are not only perfect for family gatherings or game day, but they also make a fantastic treat anytime you’re craving something deep-fried and unforgettable.

Imagine biting into a golden, crispy outer layer, only to find a delightful blend of melted cheddar and zesty jalapenos on the inside.

Ready to whip up this tasty dish? Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are so many reasons to love these jalapeno cheddar corn dogs! Firstly, they’re incredibly easy to make, even for those who may not be seasoned home cooks.

The combination of flavors delivers both heat and a comforting cheesiness that makes your taste buds dance.

Plus, they are crowd-pleasers—whether it’s a party, a picnic, or just a cozy night in with your loved ones, these corn dogs will be a hit.

Trust me; once you try them, they will become your go-to snack!

Ingredients

To make the best jalapeno cheddar corn dogs, gather these ingredients:

• 2 cups (320 g) fine yellow cornmeal
• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 1 large egg, well beaten
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup pickled jalapenos, finely chopped

How To Make Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Dogs

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create these mouthwatering corn dogs.

Step 1: Prepare Your Hot Dogs

First things first, gather your hot dogs.

You can use beef, chicken, or turkey hot dogs, depending on your preference.

Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the batter stick better.

If you’d like, you can also insert wooden skewers or popsicle sticks into them for easy handling.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the fine yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed.

Now, in another bowl, combine the milk, beaten egg, vegetable oil, and honey.

Stir well to create a smooth mixture.

Gradually pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously until you get a thick and well-combined batter.

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pickled jalapenos, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large, deep saucepan or a deep fryer, heat enough vegetable oil for deep-frying, about 3 inches deep.

Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).

You can use a kitchen thermometer to check if your oil is at the right temperature.

Step 4: Coat the Hot Dogs

Once your oil is hot, dip each prepared hot dog into the batter, making sure to cover it completely.

Let any excess batter drip off before carefully placing it into the hot oil.

Step 5: Fry the Corn Dogs

Fry the corn dogs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry each corn dog for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy—turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once they are golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the corn dogs from the oil, and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Let them cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips

To ensure your jalapeno cheddar corn dogs turn out perfect, keep these tips in mind:

• Make sure your oil is at the right temperature before frying. If it’s too cold, the corn dogs will absorb too much oil; if it’s too hot, they might burn.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your spice tolerance—add more for an extra kick or leave them out for a milder flavor.
• To keep your corn dogs warm while you fry the rest, place them in a warm oven set to low (around 200°F or 93°C).
• If you want a crunchier texture, consider double-dipping the corn dogs in the batter before frying.

Variations and Customizations

These jalapeno cheddar corn dogs can be customized in many ways! Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Add cooked bacon bits or sausage pieces to the batter for even more flavor.
• Try adding different spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
• For a healthier version, bake the corn dogs instead of frying them—just brush them lightly with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is highly unlikely because they’re so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain some of that crunch.

FAQ

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for about 24 hours.

Just give it a good stir before using it.

What kind of hot dogs work best for corn dogs?

Any hot dog will work, but beef or turkey hot dogs tend to hold up well in the frying process.

Just choose your favorite type!

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.

How do I know when the corn dogs are done cooking?

Your corn dogs should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

You can also check if they’re cooked through by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean without any raw batter sticking to it.

Conclusion

Making jalapeno cheddar corn dogs at home is easier than you think and incredibly rewarding.

They are a deliciously fun treat that everyone will love! Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them on a cozy night in, or even tailgating, these corn dogs will certainly impress.

So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a crispy, cheesy, and spicy delight.

Happy cooking!

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