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Crispy Corn Cheese Bites Recipe

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4.8 from 143 reviews

Delightfully crispy and cheesy corn bites with a perfect balance of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, combined with sweet corn kernels and flavorful spices. These bites offer a crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center, perfect as a snack or appetizer. Choose to deep fry for the crispiest texture or bake for a healthier option.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups Canned or Frozen Corn (approximately 1 can or equivalent amount of frozen corn kernels)
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (about 4 ounces)
  • ½ cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (about 2 ounces)
  • ½ cup All-Purpose Flour (approximately 60 grams)
  • 1 Large Egg (at room temperature)
  • ¼ cup Breadcrumbs (approximately 20 grams)

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (approximately 3 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder (approximately 1.5 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika (approximately 1.5 grams)
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt (approximately 1 gram)
  • ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper (approximately 0.5 grams)

For Cooking

  • Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil (enough for frying, about 2-3 inches deep in the pan)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: Drain canned corn thoroughly or thaw frozen corn completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, preventing sogginess in the bites.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and whisk lightly to ensure even incorporation throughout the mixture.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients and Cheese: Add all-purpose flour, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the bowl with the whisked egg.
  4. Incorporate the Corn: Add the prepared corn kernels to the bowl and begin combining with the cheese and spices.
  5. Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon or spatula to mix all ingredients until evenly combined into a thick, slightly sticky mixture with the corn, cheese, and spices well distributed.
  6. Form the Bites: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape into a small ball or flattened disc, adjusting size as preferred but keeping them small for even cooking; repeat until all mixture is used, yielding about 20-25 bites.
  7. Prepare for Frying or Baking: For frying, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable or canola oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C). For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  8. Cook the Bites: Fry the bites in batches in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, or bake on the prepared sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and heated through.
  9. Drain Excess Oil (If Frying): Remove fried bites with a slotted spoon and place on paper towel-lined plate to drain extra oil.
  10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow bites to cool briefly before serving to enjoy warm, crispy bites with gooey cheese centers; serve with preferred dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Use low-moisture mozzarella for better browning and less moisture in the bites.
  • If using frozen corn, ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry to avoid sogginess.
  • The size of the bites can be adjusted; smaller bites cook more evenly.
  • For a healthier option, baking is recommended over frying.
  • Check oil temperature carefully to avoid greasy, soggy bites when frying.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.