Spicy Mexican Corn Bites

There’s something magical about bite-sized snacks that pack a punch of flavor. These Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and spicy, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or just craving a flavorful snack, these little bites will quickly become a favorite.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

Mexican cuisine is all about bold flavors, and this recipe embodies that spirit with a mix of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and warm, aromatic spices. They’re like a mini fiesta in every bite! Plus, they’re super easy to make and perfect for meal prep—you can even freeze them and reheat them whenever you need a quick, delicious snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor – The sweetness of corn combined with the spice of jalapeños and the richness of cheese creates an irresistible combination.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you need an appetizer for game night, a side dish for taco night, or just a snack to enjoy on its own, these bites fit the bill.
• Crispy on the Outside, Cheesy on the Inside – The golden brown crust gives way to a gooey, cheesy center, making each bite a satisfying experience.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps mean you can whip these up in no time.
• Customizable – Want more spice? Add extra jalapeños! Love cheese? Go ahead and load them up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced
• 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
• Oil for frying

How to Make Spicy Mexican Corn Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Corn Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, diced jalapeño, red bell pepper, green onions, and chopped cilantro. Give it a quick mix to evenly distribute the ingredients.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This dry mixture helps give the corn bites structure and adds layers of flavor.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

In another small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and lime juice. Slowly pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring. Once combined, add the corn and cheese mixture. Stir everything together until you have a thick, sticky batter.

Step 3: Shape the Bites

Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls. If the batter feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands to make rolling easier.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Roll each corn bite in panko breadcrumbs to give them a crispy, golden coating. This step ensures they fry up with a delightful crunch.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully drop in the corn bites, a few at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

These corn bites are best enjoyed warm, served with your favorite dipping sauce. Try them with spicy sriracha mayo, avocado crema, or classic sour cream for an extra flavor boost.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir just until combined to keep the bites light and airy.
• Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the jalapeño seeds or use a milder pepper like poblano. If you love spice, add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Corn – Fresh corn gives the best texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain it first to remove excess moisture.
• Bake Instead of Frying – For a healthier version, bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
• Make Them Ahead – Prepare and freeze them before frying. When ready to eat, fry or bake directly from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 20 bites
• Category: Appetizer/Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• If you want a cheesier filling, add an extra ¼ cup of cheese to the mixture.
• To keep your hands clean while rolling, use a small ice cream scoop for uniform portions.
• Serve with a side of fresh lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~120
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

(Values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 3 months and cook straight from frozen.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Try them with chipotle aioli, guacamole, spicy salsa, or even a tangy yogurt dip for a creamy contrast.

Can I air-fry these instead of deep-frying?

Yes! Spray them lightly with oil and air-fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Are these gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and cornmeal and replacing panko with crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked or cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight before reheating.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites, you’ll definitely enjoy these other delicious snacks:

• Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy

• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast

Conclusion

These Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are the perfect way to bring bold flavors to your snack table. With a crispy coating, gooey cheesy center, and just the right amount of spice, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re serving them at a party, game night, or just indulging in a tasty treat, they’re always a good idea.

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