There is something so comforting about a batch of warm, golden mini corn dogs. They are crispy on the outside, fluffy in the middle, and have that savory bite of a hot dog inside. These are the kind of yummy appetizers that disappear fast at parties, family nights, or game days. If you love party appetizer recipes or need quick appetizers that everyone will enjoy, this is a recipe you will want to save.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Perfect for party snacks finger foods and gatherings
- Budget-friendly, makes great cheap dinners for a family
- Fun, handheld, and kid-approved handheld appetizers
Ingredients You Will Need
Each ingredient plays a simple role in making these mini corn dogs crispy, fluffy, and delicious.
- Hot dogs: The heart of the snack, choose beef or chicken for best flavor.
- Cornmeal: Brings that classic golden crust.
- All-purpose flour: Helps hold the batter together.
- Baking powder: Gives the batter a light, fluffy rise.
- Milk: Makes the batter smooth and creamy.
- Egg: Binds everything for a rich texture.
- Sugar: Just a touch for balance.
- Salt: Brings out all the flavors.
- Oil: For frying until crisp and golden.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps and you will have a tray of crunchy, fluffy, appetizers easy finger food in no time.
- Cut the hot dogs into bite-size pieces and insert toothpicks for easy dipping.
- In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add milk and egg, then mix until you get a thick, smooth batter.
- Heat oil in a deep pan until hot enough for frying.
- Dip each hot dog piece into the batter, coating fully, then carefully place in the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, then remove and place on paper towels to drain.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mini Corn Dogs
Do not let your oil get too cool or the mini corn dogs will soak up grease instead of crisping. Avoid using thin batter, or it will not stick to the hot dogs. Also, do not overcrowd the pan, as this lowers oil temperature and makes soggy results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with ketchup, mustard, or a cheese dip for the best simple appetizers. Pair them with fries for cheap dinners for a family, or set them on a platter with other best finger foods like sliders and veggie cups. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven for a quick snack.
Mini Corn Dogs
Equipment
- Deep Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Toothpicks
Ingredients
Hot Dogs
- 8 pieces hot dogs beef or chicken
Batter
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
For Frying
- oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Cut the hot dogs into bite-size pieces and insert toothpicks for easy dipping.
- In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add milk and egg, then mix until you get a thick, smooth batter.
- Heat oil in a deep pan until hot enough for frying.
- Dip each hot dog piece into the batter, coating fully, then carefully place in the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, then remove and place on paper towels to drain.
Notes
FAQs
How do I keep mini corn dogs crispy after frying?
Keep them warm in the oven at 200°F on a wire rack. This allows air to circulate and prevents sogginess. If stacked or wrapped, they can lose their crunch, so spread them out for best results.
Can I make mini corn dogs ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry them earlier in the day and reheat in the oven before serving. For a party, this makes them one of the easiest appetizer recipes for party finger foods. They stay crispy if reheated correctly on a baking sheet.
What can I use instead of hot dogs?
You can use cocktail sausages or even veggie dogs if you prefer. The batter works perfectly with both. This makes the recipe flexible for different diets and great for party snacks finger foods where you may want variety.
Conclusion
If you are looking for yummy appetizers that double as quick appetizers and work for both kids and adults, these mini corn dogs are perfect. Save this recipe and bring fun, flavor, and crunch to your next gathering.
