Save
These Crispy Corn Cheese Bites turn simple ingredients like sweet corn, gooey mozzarella, and fragrant herbs into crunchy, golden snacks bursting with flavor. The crispy outside gives way to a warm, cheesy center with tender bursts of corn. Lightly spiced with black pepper and Italian herbs, these bites are perfect for a casual gathering, movie night, or anytime a satisfying, vegetarian-friendly snack calls your name.
I first made these during a cozy weekend hangout with friends, and they were gone in no time. Now they are my go-to snack whenever I want something fun and tasty without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- Corn kernels: Fresh or thawed from frozen for sweet pops of flavor and tender texture
- Grated mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy, gooey heart inside each bite
- All-purpose flour: Adds structure to the batter so the bites hold their shape when frying
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty and salty depth that complements the sweetness of corn
- Cornflour: Helps bind the mixture and gives an extra crisp crust
- Baking powder: Creates lightness in the batter by forming air pockets
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that livens up the mixture
- Mixed Italian herbs: A fragrant blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that adds a Mediterranean twist
- Garlic powder: Adds gentle garlic warmth without overpowering texture
- Finely chopped onion: Gives savory depth and a slight sweetness
- Green chili: Optional for a touch of heat
- Milk: Moistens the batter and brings silkiness for a smooth consistency
- Vegetable oil: Neutral oil with a high smoke point ideal for frying to golden perfection
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics and Combine Ingredients:
- Prepare the corn kernels by boiling or thawing them if frozen. In a large bowl, fold together the corn, finely chopped onion, grated mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese gently to avoid breaking the kernels.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Add the all-purpose flour and cornflour to the bowl. Sprinkle in the baking powder, salt, black pepper, mixed Italian herbs, and garlic powder. If you like heat, add the finely chopped green chili. Use a whisk or fork to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Make the Batter:
- Pour the milk gradually while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The batter should be thick and scoopable enough to form firm balls that won’t fall apart.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan and heat over medium heat. The oil is ready when it shimmers but does not smoke, ideally at around 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
- Shape and Fry:
- Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the batter into bite-sized balls. Fry them in batches without crowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Each batch should take about 3 to 4 minutes until the bites turn a rich golden brown.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the bites with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, sweet chili, or herb-infused mayo.
Save
Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient here because it melts into creamy gooey centers that make every bite irresistible. I often find myself sneaking one while cooking even before they make it to the table.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container after they have cooled completely to prevent sogginess. Place parchment paper between layers to maintain crispness. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bites by flash freezing them on a tray first, then transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore their crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have mozzarella, you can use a mild melting cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Gluten-free all-purpose flour works fine in place of regular flour but keep an eye on the batter consistency when adding milk. You can swap vegetable oil for sunflower or canola oil, as long as it has a high smoke point.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these bites with zesty marinara sauce to balance the rich cheese with fresh acidity. Sweet chili sauce with a wedge of lime brings a sweet-spicy contrast that keeps things exciting. For a creamy touch, whip up a garlic and herb mayonnaise garnished with fresh chives. A fresh fruit and vegetable salsa with mango and red bell pepper adds bright color and crunchy texture that complements the warm bites.
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overcrowd the frying pan to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even crisping.
- I learned the hard way that gradually adding the milk and stirring constantly prevents lumps and gives you a batter that holds its shape perfectly.
- Use fresh or well-thawed corn kernels for the best texture and flavor—frozen corn that is still icy can make the batter watery and affect cooking times.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of corn works best for these bites?
Fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels both work well, providing natural sweetness and a tender burst in each bite.
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
Baking can reduce oil use but might not yield the same crispiness; frying ensures a golden crust and light interior texture.
- → How do the herbs enhance the flavor?
The blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds a fragrant Mediterranean touch that complements the cheeses and corn beautifully.
- → Is it possible to add a spicy kick?
Yes, finely chopped green chili can be added to the batter to introduce a mild, warming heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- → How should leftovers be stored to keep them crisp?
Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
Zesty marinara, sweet chili sauce, or herb-infused garlic mayonnaise offer excellent contrasting flavors that enhance the crispy, cheesy bites.