Cheesy Jalapeno Corn Dogs Recipe

Sizzling Cheesy Jalapeno Corn Dogs Recipe for Spicy Food Lovers

Crisp summer days call for fair-style delights like these homemade cheesy jalapeño corn dogs that blend spicy and savory flavors.

Weekend barbecues spark joy when you serve up these golden, crunchy treats packed with melted cheese and zesty pepper heat.

The classic street food gets an exciting upgrade with sharp cheddar and fresh jalapeño peppers nestled inside a perfectly crisp cornmeal batter.

Each bite delivers a delightful crunch that snaps with incredible flavor and warmth.

These corn dogs turn ordinary gatherings into memorable feasts with their irresistible combination of textures and bold seasonings.

Kids and adults alike will devour these handheld delights faster than you can say “seconds, please!” Prepare to become the ultimate party hero with this crowd-pleasing recipe that promises to steal the show.

Cheesy Jalapeno Corn Dogs: Spicy & Fun

  • Personalize these corn dogs by experimenting with different cheese types or adding extra spices to the batter for a unique flavor twist.
  • Perfect for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings where you want to impress guests with a fun and delicious appetizer.
  • Engaging recipe that allows children to help with simple tasks like mixing batter or watching the frying process under adult supervision.
  • Transform the classic corn dog into a gourmet treat by using high-quality hot dogs and adding a spicy jalapeno kick to elevate the traditional snack.

Corn Dog Ingredient Lineup

Main Ingredients:

Hot Dogs: Protein-packed sausages that form the core of this classic carnival-style dish.

Cheese Slices: Adds a melty, rich layer of flavor to the hot dogs before battering.

Jalapenos: Provides a spicy kick and fresh heat to the corn dog batter.

Batter Components:

Flour, Cornmeal: Create the classic crispy exterior that gives corn dogs their signature texture.

Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Essential dry ingredients that enhance the batter’s flavor and help it rise.

Milk, Egg: Binding agents that help create a smooth and consistent batter.

Cooking and Serving Ingredients:

Vegetable Oil: Used for deep-frying to achieve a golden brown and crispy exterior.

Wooden Skewers: Provides a convenient handle for dipping and eating the corn dogs.

Mustard: A classic condiment for dipping that complements the savory corn dogs.

Kitchen Tools For Perfect Corn Dogs

  • Wooden Skewers: Essential for holding and frying corn dogs, ensuring easy handling.
  • Large Bowl: Perfect for mixing dry and wet batter ingredients smoothly.
  • Tall Glass: Helps with easy batter dipping of cheese-wrapped hot dogs.
  • Large Pot: Ideal for deep frying corn dogs at the right temperature.
  • Baking Sheet: Used for freezing cheese-wrapped hot dogs before battering.
  • Tongs: Crucial for safely placing and turning corn dogs in hot oil.
  • Measuring Cups/Spoons: Needed for accurate ingredient measurements.

How To Fry Up Cheesy Jalapeno Dogs

Step 1: Wrap Hot Dogs in Cheese

Grab a hot dog and lovingly wrap it with a slice of cheese, creating a delicious cheesy embrace.

Slide a wooden skewer through the cheese-hugged hot dog, making sure the seam sits snugly underneath.

Repeat this process for each hot dog.

Pop the skewered treats into the freezer for a quick 20-minute chill.

Step 2: Mix Magical Corn Dog Batter

Combine your dry ingredients in a mixing bowl:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cornmeal
  • Sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re best friends.

Now add your wet ingredients:
  • Milk
  • Egg
  • Minced jalapeños

Stir until the batter becomes smooth and silky.

If it looks too runny, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

The perfect batter should cling to the hot dog like a cozy blanket.

Pour the batter into a tall glass for easy dipping.

Step 3: Fire Up the Oil

Heat oil in a large pot until it reaches a sizzling 350°F (180°C).

Use a thermometer to ensure the perfect temperature for golden, crispy corn dogs.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Grab a frozen hot dog by its skewer tip.

Dunk it completely into the batter, letting excess drip off.

Carefully lower the battered dog into the hot oil using tongs.

Hold it submerged for 30-60 seconds to form a crispy crust.

Rotate slowly to ensure even, beautiful golden-brown coloring.

Cook for 3-5 minutes until it looks absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Serve with Flair

Plate your corn dogs with a side of tangy mustard for dipping.

Step 6: Devour and Enjoy

Bite into your crispy, cheesy, spicy creation and savor every delicious moment!

Tips For Crispy, Melty Corn Dogs

  • Chilling cheese-wrapped hot dogs helps the cheese stay intact during deep-frying and prevents unwanted melting.
  • Adjust flour amount to achieve a thick, clingy batter that coats hot dogs evenly without dripping off quickly.
  • Keep oil steady at 350F to ensure crispy, golden-brown corn dogs without absorbing excess oil or burning.
  • Continuously turn corn dogs in hot oil for uniform browning and even cooking throughout the entire surface.
  • Serve with classic yellow or spicy brown mustard to complement the cheesy, jalapeño-infused corn dog flavor.

Corn Dog Flavors & Mix-Ins

  • Veggie Dog Delight: Swap traditional hot dogs with plant-based veggie dogs for a vegetarian-friendly version that maintains the same crispy, cheesy exterior.
  • Gluten-Free Corn Dog Hack: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free cornmeal or rice flour blend, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy this classic snack.
  • Chicken Sausage Swap: Use lean chicken or turkey sausages instead of hot dogs for a healthier protein option with lower fat content.
  • Low-Carb Corn Dog Alternative: Wrap hot dogs in thin cheese slices and coat with crushed pork rinds instead of traditional batter for a keto-friendly adaptation.

Serving Corn Dogs On A Stick

  • Dipping Delights: Classic yellow mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the cheesy, spicy corn dogs perfectly.
  • Spicy Sidekick: Serve with homemade jalapeño ranch dressing for an extra heat boost that matches the corn dogs' zesty flavor.
  • Party Platter Presentation: Arrange corn dogs on a wooden board with small dipping bowls of various sauces like sriracha mayo, honey mustard, and bbq sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer spread.
  • Game Day Companion: Pair with crisp coleslaw or quick pickled vegetables to balance the rich, fried texture of the corn dogs.

Corn Dog Storage For Next Day

  • Store leftover corn dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual corn dogs tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain best quality and taste.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange corn dogs on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even heating and crispy exterior.
  • Cook frozen corn dogs at 375°F for 4-6 minutes, shaking basket halfway through to restore original crispiness and prevent sogginess.

FAQs

  • How do I prevent the cheese from melting out during frying?

Wrap the hot dog tightly with cheese and freeze for 20 minutes before battering. This helps the cheese stay inside during the high-heat frying process.

  • Can I make the corn dogs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese-wrapped hot dogs and batter in advance. Keep the cheese-wrapped hot dogs frozen and the batter refrigerated until you’re ready to fry.

  • What type of oil works best for deep frying?

Vegetable oil or canola oil are ideal for deep frying corn dogs because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Make sure the oil reaches 350F for perfect crispy coating.

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Cheesy Jalapeno Corn Dogs Recipe

Cheesy Jalapeno Corn Dogs Recipe


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4.7 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Homemade cheesy jalapeño corn dogs blend spicy peppers with classic fair fare. Crispy golden exteriors and gooey cheese make this recipe a crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll crave at your next gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 hot dogs
  • 4 thin slices of cheddar cheese, room temperature

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (140 g) yellow cornmeal
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Wet Ingredients and Additions:

  • 1 cup (240 mL) milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 jalapeno, minced
  • 1 quart (960 mL) peanut or vegetable oil, for frying
  • Mustard, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese-wrapped hot dogs by laying a cheese slice around each frankfurter, securing it with a wooden skewer. Position the skewered hot dogs seam-side down on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re neatly arranged. Transfer the tray to the freezer for a quick 20-minute chill to help the cheese adhere.
  2. Create the corn dog batter by combining dry ingredients in a mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to eliminate potential lumps. Incorporate milk, egg, and finely chopped jalapeños, stirring until the mixture reaches a smooth, consistent texture. Adjust the consistency by adding a touch of flour if needed. Transfer the batter to a tall, narrow container to simplify the dipping process.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F, monitoring the temperature with a cooking thermometer to ensure precise heating.
  4. Remove the chilled cheese-wrapped hot dogs from the freezer. Fully submerge each skewered hot dog into the prepared batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully lower the battered frankfurter into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 3-5 minutes, rotating periodically to achieve an even, golden-brown exterior. Maintain consistent oil temperature throughout cooking.
  5. Once golden and crispy, remove corn dogs from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with mustard for dipping.

Notes

  • Freeze the cheese-wrapped hot dogs to help the cheese adhere and prevent it from sliding off during frying, creating a perfect cheesy exterior.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure the batter mixes smoothly and coats the hot dogs evenly without lumps.
  • Select fresh jalapeños for a vibrant, spicy kick that complements the cheesy corn dog, adjusting the amount based on your heat tolerance.
  • Choose a deep, heavy-bottomed pot for consistent oil temperature and safe frying, preventing uneven cooking or potential oil splatters.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 510 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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