Corn Fritters Recipe

The Best Corn Fritters Recipe for Crispy Golden Goodness

Crispy, golden corn fritters dance with southern charm on your plate, promising a burst of summer’s sweetest memories.

Summer harvests bring magical kernels bursting with flavor and potential.

Sweet corn kernels transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary at your dinner table.

Local farmers’ markets overflow with fresh produce perfect for this delightful dish.

Crunchy edges and tender centers make these fritters irresistible to everyone around the table.

Each bite carries a symphony of textures that whisper comfort and joy.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the corn fritters are perfectly cooked?

Look for a golden brown color on both sides and a crispy exterior. The fritters should be cooked through with a light, crisp texture that’s not soggy or undercooked in the center.

  • Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn kernels?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain the corn completely before adding it to the batter to prevent excess moisture that could make the fritters soggy.

  • What's the best way to keep the fritters crispy after frying?

Drain them on paper towels immediately after cooking to remove excess oil, and serve them warm right away. If you need to keep them crisp for a short time, place them on a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F) instead of stacking them on a plate.

  • Is there a way to make these fritters healthier?

Try baking them instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 425°F, place the batter on a greased baking sheet, and bake until golden brown, turning once halfway through cooking.

What Makes Corn Fritters A Crowd Favorite

  • Quick Family Feast: Perfect for busy weeknight dinners with minimal ingredients and fast preparation.
  • Foolproof Cooking: Simple step-by-step process that even beginner cooks can master without complicated techniques.
  • Budget-Friendly Delight: Uses affordable ingredients like corn, flour, and basic pantry staples to create a delicious side dish or snack.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable recipe that works great as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need For Corn Fritters

Corn Base:
  • Corn Kernels: Sweet and juicy base for fritters, fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture.
Main Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and binding for the fritters.
  • Baking Powder: Helps create light and airy texture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance overall taste.
Liquid and Binding Ingredients:
  • Egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
  • Milk: Helps create smooth batter consistency.
  • Green Onions: Optional but adds fresh, mild onion flavor and color.
Cooking Ingredient:
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for frying fritters to golden crispy perfection, neutral flavor works best.

Step-By-Step Guide To Cook Corn Fritters

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together flour, baking powder, salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper until perfectly combined.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Mixture

Crack an egg into a separate bowl and whisk it thoroughly, then pour in milk and mix until smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 3: Create Fritter Batter

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring carefully to avoid overmixing.

Fold in the ingredients:
  • Fresh corn kernels
  • Chopped green onions

Mix until just combined, keeping the batter light and airy.

Step 4: Heat Cooking Surface

Place a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, allowing it to warm up and shimmer slightly.

Step 5: Fry Corn Fritters

Scoop small spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, creating golden rounds.

Cook each side until they transform into a beautiful crispy brown color, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Transfer the fritters onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Serve immediately while warm and crispy, perfect as a side dish or light appetizer.

Pro Kitchen Tips For Crisp Corn Fritters

  • Use fresh, sweet corn kernels for the best flavor and texture in your fritters.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep fritters light and fluffy; mix just until ingredients are combined.
  • Maintain medium heat to ensure crispy exterior and fully cooked interior without burning.
  • Let fritters rest on paper towels to remove extra oil and keep them crisp and light.
  • Pair with sour cream, salsa, or a zesty dipping sauce to enhance the fritters' flavor profile.

How To Store And Reheat Corn Fritters Easily

  • Store leftover corn fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread fritters on a baking sheet and warm for 5-7 minutes until crispy. This method helps restore their original crunchiness better than microwave.
  • Quickly revive fritters in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until heated through and edges become crisp again.
  • Wrap individual fritters in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Delicious Sides To Serve With Corn Fritters

  • Zesty Southwest Salsa Dip: Craft a bright tomato-based salsa with jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice to complement the crispy fritters' rich flavor profile.
  • Creamy Herb Aioli: Whip up a garlic-infused mayonnaise blended with fresh chives and parsley for a smooth, tangy dipping sauce that balances the fritters' crunch.
  • Cool Cucumber Slaw: Prepare a light, refreshing coleslaw with thinly sliced cucumbers, green onions, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the fritters' richness.
  • Summer Citrus Beverage Pairing: Serve with a chilled lemonade or crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the corn fritters' summer-inspired taste and provide a bright, acidic contrast.

Corn Fritters with Savory and Sweet Mix-In Options

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities. Ensure baking powder is certified gluten-free.
  • Vegan Alternative: Substitute egg with mashed banana or flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use plant-based milk like soy or almond milk for liquid component.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or jalapeños to the corn mixture for extra nutrition and flavor complexity. These additions increase vegetable intake and create more texture in fritters.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of corn kernels and swap flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Reduce overall carbohydrate content while maintaining a crispy exterior.
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Corn Fritters Recipe

Corn Fritters Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy corn fritters bring Southern comfort straight to your plate, blending sweet kernels with a golden, crunchy exterior. Summer’s freshest corn creates magic when mixed with simple pantry ingredients, promising a delightful bite that connects you to home-style cooking traditions.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk

Seasoning:

  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Optional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper together in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a uniform dry foundation for the fritters.
  2. In a separate container, thoroughly beat the egg and integrate milk, forming a smooth liquid mixture.
  3. Gently merge the wet and dry ingredients, ensuring no lumps remain in the batter.
  4. Carefully incorporate corn kernels and finely chopped green onions into the mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  5. Warm a skillet with oil over medium heat, allowing it to reach an optimal frying temperature.
  6. Using a spoon, carefully deposit dollops of batter into the sizzling oil, creating individual fritters.
  7. Fry each fritter until a rich golden-brown color develops on the bottom, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  8. Flip the fritters and continue cooking the opposite side until achieving an equally appetizing golden hue.
  9. Transfer the freshly fried fritters onto paper towels to absorb excess oil and ensure a crisp exterior.
  10. Serve the fritters immediately while warm, presenting a delightful crispy and tender appetizer or side dish.

Notes

  • Swap fresh corn with frozen or canned corn for year-round convenience, ensuring you drain excess moisture before mixing.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to elevate the flavor profile and give a subtle kick to the fritters.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Enhance protein content by mixing in finely chopped bacon or diced jalapeños for extra texture and a flavor boost.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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