Irresistibly Crispy Cheesy Corn

Category: Food That Makes People Think You've Got Life Figured Out

These golden fritters combine fresh corn kernels and sharp cheese to create a delightful balance of textures. Crispy on the outside with a soft, melty center, they come together quickly using simple ingredients found in most kitchens. The batter is gently mixed and pan-fried to a perfect golden brown, offering a gratifying crunch with every bite. Serve warm alongside a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that brings out the sweetness of corn and the richness of cheese in every mouthful.

Lili Clark smiling at the camera.
Created By Lili Clark
Updated on Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:26:51 GMT
A stack of three corn cakes with cheese on top. Save
A stack of three corn cakes with cheese on top. | lilicooks.com

These irresistibly crispy cheesy corn fritters come together quickly using fresh corn, sharp cheese, and green onions for a snack or side dish that is crunchy on the outside and soft and gooey inside. They are perfect for quick get-togethers, a savory addition to a meal, or a comforting treat any time you need something satisfying and simple.

The very first time I made these was for a summer party with neighbors and they disappeared so fast that I knew they were a keeper. Now my family makes sure these fritters are part of every holiday and weekend gathering.

Ingredients

  • Fresh corn kernels: which add bursts of natural sweetness Look for firm plump kernels for the best texture
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: giving the fritters their signature melty, rich flavor I prefer block cheese grated fresh for optimal melt and taste
  • All purpose flour: to create a light batter that holds everything together Choose unbleached flour for better consistency
  • Baking powder: to lighten the batter and ensure a fluffier fritter always check for freshness to get a good rise
  • Large eggs: working as a binder and adding richness Use large eggs rather than extra large for proper batter texture
  • Finely chopped green onions: for mild sharpness and a hint of color Include white and green parts for fuller flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Gather And Prep Ingredients:
Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting Cut fresh corn from cobs and finely slice the green onions This keeps the cooking process smooth and organized
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, stir together the flour and baking powder until fully mixed This provides an even lift for the fritters
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly Then add the corn, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions Whisking helps coat every kernel and slice evenly
Form The Batter:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients Gently fold just until combined leaving a few streaks of flour to prevent toughness Overmixing will make the fritters dense
Heat And Fry:
Warm a thin layer of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat When the oil is hot, drop large spoonfuls of batter leaving space between them Press down lightly if you prefer flatter fritters Fry each side for approximately three minutes until golden brown Flip only once to keep the exterior crisp
Drain And Serve:
Remove fritters and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil Serve them warm so the cheese inside is molten and the outside remains crisp
A stack of corn cakes with a dollop of sour cream on top. Save
A stack of corn cakes with a dollop of sour cream on top. | lilicooks.com

My favorite ingredient is definitely fresh corn in late summer from the farmer’s market. Its sweetness paired with melty cheese reminds me of cooking with my kids on summer afternoons while we played music in the kitchen. Those times filled with laughter and the smell of frying batter are unforgettable and make this recipe feel like a true family tradition.

Storage Tips

Let the fritters cool completely before storing them to maintain their texture Place them in an airtight container layered with paper towels in the refrigerator Use within three days To reheat, warm them in a hot oven or toaster oven This helps restore their crispy edges and melts the cheese inside without sogginess

Ingredient Substitutions

Frozen corn can be used if fresh is out of season just thaw and pat dry well to avoid watery batter You may swap the cheddar cheese for a mix of parmesan and mozzarella for a different flavor profile Finely diced red bell pepper can be folded in for color and a slight sweetness Almond flour with a touch of xanthan gum is a great gluten free option that won’t sacrifice texture in the fritters

Serving Suggestions

These corn fritters shine when paired with a crisp green salad or a lightly spiced dipping sauce Think chipotle mayonnaise, herbed yogurt, or even a tangy sour cream They are equally perfect as bite sized appetizers when made slightly smaller for easy finger food

Cultural and Historical Notes

Corn fritters have their origins in Southern and Appalachian American cuisines where they often appear at family picnics and gatherings They are comfort food rooted in celebrating fresh, peak-season ingredients The simplicity of the recipe allows cooks to adapt it in many ways reflecting local tastes and creativity

Making these fritters has become one of those simple kitchen joys that always deliver something satisfying The sizzle as the batter hits the pan and the mix of sweet corn and melty cheese turns every bite into a small celebration

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the fritters extra crispy?

Make sure the oil is hot before adding the batter and avoid overcrowding the pan. After frying, drain them on paper towels to keep edges crisp.

→ Is it okay to use frozen or canned corn?

Yes, both thawed frozen corn and well-drained canned corn work well if fresh corn is unavailable, just be sure to pat dry to avoid sogginess.

→ Which cheese works best in these fritters?

Sharp cheddar provides a bold flavor and good melt, while mozzarella offers a smooth, gooey texture. Blending both can be delicious.

→ What dipping sauces complement these fritters?

Sour cream, chipotle mayo, tangy yogurt sauce, or sweet chili sauce pair nicely, adding a flavorful contrast to the fritters.

→ How do I prevent blotchy or soggy fritters?

Be careful not to overmix the batter, use sufficient flour for structure, fry in properly heated oil, and drain well after cooking.

→ Can I make these gluten free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour plus a pinch of xanthan gum to maintain texture and crispness.

Irresistibly Crispy Cheesy Corn

Golden fritters with sweet corn and melted cheese, crispy outside and tender inside. Ideal for snacks or sides.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
15 min
Overall Time
30 min
Created By: Lili Clark

Category: Snacks

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 4 Serves (Approximately 12 fritters)

Dietary Options: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 cups fresh corn kernels
02 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 1 cup all-purpose flour
04 1 teaspoon baking powder
05 2 large eggs
06 0.25 cup finely chopped green onions

Steps

Step 01

Measure all ingredients and cut the kernels from fresh corn cobs if using whole corn.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder until evenly blended.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 04

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold together just until combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 05

Heat a thin layer of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, spacing them apart. Fry each side for approximately 3 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 06

Transfer the cooked fritters onto paper towels to drain excess oil before serving while hot.

Tips

  1. For best results, use freshly cut corn kernels and avoid overcrowding the pan during frying.

Required Tools

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large non-stick skillet
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains eggs and dairy; check all ingredients for potential allergens.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Proteins: 7 g