Description
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—Corn Nuggets are a golden, bite-sized snack packed with sweet corn flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these nuggets are deliciously crunchy and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether deep-fried, baked, or air-fried, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained if needed)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder or onion powder (optional)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk
Coating Ingredients:
- 1 egg + 2 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or extra cornmeal (for coating)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Optional Additions:
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a cheesy center.
- Jalapeños: Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Twist: Add 1 tbsp sugar or honey for extra sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn Mixture
- In a bowl, mix sweet corn, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk egg and milk until blended.
- Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a thick batter forms.
- Stir in any optional cheese or jalapeños.
Step 2: Shape & Chill the Nuggets
- Scoop small portions of the batter using a spoon or small cookie scoop.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes (this helps them hold shape).
Step 3: Coat the Nuggets
- Whisk egg and milk in one bowl for an egg wash.
- In another bowl, place breadcrumbs or extra cornmeal.
- Dip each chilled nugget into the egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Fry, Bake, or Air-Fry
- Deep Frying (Crispiest): Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry nuggets in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Air Frying (Healthier): Preheat to 375°F (190°C), spray nuggets with oil, and air-fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Baking (Least Oil, Still Delicious): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), arrange nuggets on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air-Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Keywords: Corn nuggets, crispy corn bites, easy snack, Southern appetizer, party food