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Crispy Corn Cheese Bites Recipe

4.4 from 72 reviews

Crispy Corn Cheese Bites are delightful, golden-fried or baked snacks made from sweet corn kernels combined with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. These bite-sized treats are seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and paprika, offering a perfect balance of savory flavors and a crispy exterior. Ideal as appetizers or party snacks, they can be fried for a traditional crunch or baked for a healthier alternative.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn & Cheese Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups Canned or Frozen Corn (approximately 1 can or equivalent thawed frozen corn)
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (about 4 ounces)
  • ½ cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (about 2 ounces, low-moisture preferred)

Binding & Seasonings

  • ½ cup All-Purpose Flour (approximately 60 grams)
  • 1 Large Egg (at room temperature)
  • ¼ cup Breadcrumbs (approximately 20 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (about 3 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder (about 1.5 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika (about 1.5 grams, smoked paprika optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt (approximately 1 gram)
  • ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper (approximately 0.5 grams)

For Frying

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: Drain canned corn thoroughly or, if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps prevent sogginess in the bites.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, crack and lightly whisk 1 large egg to ensure it mixes evenly into 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 egg.
  4. Incorporate the Corn: Add the prepared corn kernels to the bowl and combine them gently with the cheese and spices mixture.
  5. Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon or spatula to mix all ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be thick, sticky, and evenly distributed with corn, cheese, and seasoning.
  6. Form the Bites: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape into small balls or flattened discs. Arrange the formed bites on a clean plate or tray. This will yield approximately 20-25 bites depending on size.
  7. Prepare for Frying (or Baking): For frying, pour vegetable or canola oil to a 2-3 inch depth in a deep pan and heat it 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 greased with oil.
  8. Cook the Bites: Frying: Carefully drop bites into hot oil without overcrowding. Fry 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Baking: Place bites spaced apart on prepared sheet. Bake 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and heated through.
  9. Drain Excess Oil (if fried): Using a slotted spoon, remove fried bites and transfer to paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
  10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow bites to cool briefly so cheese remains gooey and exterior crisp. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible snack.

Notes

  • Ensure corn is thoroughly dried to avoid soggy bites.
  • Using low-moisture mozzarella helps achieve better browning and less moisture in the bites.
  • Adjust seasoning and salt according to taste and cheese saltiness.
  • For a healthier version, baking is a great alternative to frying.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
  • These bites are best served warm for optimal gooey cheese texture.
  • Panko breadcrumbs can be used in the mixture for added crunch if desired.

Keywords: corn cheese bites, crispy corn snacks, fried cheese bites, appetizer, party snack