Crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold Mexican flavors, these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are the perfect snack or appetizer. With a crunchy golden exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, they are ideal for parties, game nights, or simply satisfying a craving for something deliciously spicy.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites because they bring together sweet corn, gooey cheese, and bold spices in one irresistible bite. The combination of smoked paprika, chili powder, and jalapeño gives them just the right kick, while the cotija cheese adds a salty, creamy contrast. They’re easy to make and perfect for dipping in sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy sauce.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño, finely diced
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lime juice
Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the corn, cheddar cheese, cotija cheese, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
I stir in the chopped cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño for extra flavor.
In a separate small bowl, I whisk together the milk, egg, and lime juice.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
In a skillet, I heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Using a tablespoon, I scoop small portions of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
I fry each bite for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, I transfer the bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
I serve them warm with sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
Extra Cheesy: I sometimes add a little extra cheddar for a gooier center.
Spicier Version: Adding more cayenne or diced serrano peppers makes them extra fiery.
Baked Option: Instead of frying, I bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Gluten-Free: I swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Different Cheese: If I don’t have cotija, feta or Parmesan works well too.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: I freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: I reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes until crispy again.
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FAQs
How can I make these less spicy?
I reduce or omit the cayenne and use a mild chili powder. I can also swap jalapeño for bell pepper.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! I prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before frying.
What dipping sauces pair well with these?
I love serving them with sour cream, chipotle mayo, salsa, or a creamy avocado dip.
Can I air-fry these instead of deep frying?
Yes, I air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! I drain and pat dry the canned corn to avoid excess moisture.
Conclusion
Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, cheesy, and bold-flavored snacks. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for dipping. Whether for a party, a snack, or a fun appetizer, these little bites always deliver big flavor.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with bold Mexican flavors, these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack. Made with sweet corn, spicy jalapeño, and melty cheese, they are fried to golden perfection. Serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing treat!
Ingredients
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño, finely diced
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lime juice
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine corn, cheddar cheese, cotija cheese, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in chopped cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and lime juice.
- Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
- Using a tablespoon, scoop small portions of batter and drop them into the hot oil.
- Fry each bite for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra cheesiness, add more shredded cheddar.
Make it spicier by adding diced serrano peppers or extra cayenne.
Baking option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air-fry for a crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
