Name: Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup milk; Vegetable oil, for frying; Lime wedges, for serving; Additional Cotija cheese, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.8 from 63 reviews

If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful snack that bursts with the fresh, smoky, and cheesy goodness of the best Mexican street food, this Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe is an absolute must-try. These golden, crispy little fritters combine sweet corn kernels with a medley of spices, creamy Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro, all fried to perfection for a ticket to flavor town in every bite. Whether you want them as a party appetizer or a fun weeknight side, these fritters bring warmth, texture, and a satisfying crunch that feels like a fiesta on your plate.

Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make these Mexican Street Corn Fritters feels like a breeze because each ingredient plays a key role in creating that irresistible flavor balance and delightful texture. From the sweetness of the corn to the tangy cheese and enticing spices, everything works in harmony.

Corn kernels (2 cups): Fresh, frozen, or canned will all work, adding natural sweetness and juiciness to your fritters.
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): This binds the fritters together while contributing to a tender crumb.
Cornmeal (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle grainy texture and enhances that corn flavor.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps your fritters rise slightly for a light, fluffy interior.
Chili powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a mild, smoky heat that complements the sweet corn beautifully.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses the fritters with a smoky aroma that makes every bite memorable.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for amplifying all the other flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick to round out the spices.
Grated Cotija cheese (1/2 cup): This crumbly, salty cheese adds creaminess and a signature Mexican flair.
Fresh cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): A vibrant herbal note that brightens the fritters.
Large egg (1): Acts as a binder while lending richness to the batter.
Milk (1/4 cup): Gives moisture to create the perfect consistency for frying.
Vegetable oil: For frying, ensuring a crisp exterior.
Lime wedges: Served alongside to add a fresh, zesty finish.
Additional Cotija cheese: For sprinkling on top, making your fritters look and taste irresistible.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients and corn

Begin by mixing your corn kernels with flour, cornmeal, baking powder, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. These dry ingredients ensure each fritter gets a balanced dose of flavor and the right texture, with the corn taking center stage.

Step 2: Add the cheese, herbs, egg, and milk

Next, stir in the grated Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro for that unmistakable Mexican flair. Crack in the egg and pour the milk, then mix everything until you have a thick, rich batter that holds together well — perfect for frying.

Step 3: Heat the oil

Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key to getting a crispy, golden outside while keeping the insides tender and moist.

Step 4: Fry the fritters

Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and gently flatten them slightly with the back of your spoon. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until you see a beautiful golden brown crust forming. Then remove and drain them on paper towels to soak up any extra oil.

Step 5: Serve warm with traditional accompaniments

Don’t wait too long to enjoy these — serve your Mexican Street Corn Fritters warm with lime wedges on the side and a sprinkle of extra Cotija cheese for that perfect finish that rounds out the flavors and textures.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe

Garnishes

The classic garnishes elevate these fritters from tasty to unforgettable. A fresh squeeze of lime adds brightness and acidity to balance the creamy cheese and crispy edges. Additional Cotija cheese sprinkled on top enhances the salty, savory notes, while a scattering of chopped cilantro imparts eye-catching color and herbal freshness.

Side Dishes

These fritters are wonderfully versatile alongside many dishes. Try pairing them with a fresh avocado salad, tangy pickled vegetables, or even a smoky chipotle aioli for dipping. They also make a great side for grilled meats or fish to bring a pop of flavor and crunch to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve them stacked and drizzled with crema or garnished with sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist. Alternatively, turn them into sliders with a dollop of guacamole and shredded lettuce for a fun twist on Mexican street food that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from your Mexican Street Corn Fritters adventure, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days but are always best enjoyed sooner for that perfect crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze these fritters to enjoy later without losing too much of their charm. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can keep well for up to 1 month, making them a handy, flavorful snack anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, the best method is to pop your fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crunchy, as that tends to make the texture soggy.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to drain the canned corn thoroughly before adding it to your batter to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture of your fritters.

Is Cotija cheese necessary?

Cotija cheese adds a salty, crumbly texture that’s signature to Mexican dishes, but if you can’t find it, feta is a reasonable substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake them on a greased sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baking results in a softer fritter but still tasty!

How spicy are these fritters?

They have a mild to moderate heat from the chili powder, which complements the sweetness of the corn. You can definitely adjust the chili powder amount to suit your taste or add diced jalapeños for extra kick.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before frying, as it may thicken slightly as it rests.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing this Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe. From the first crispy bite to the last hint of zesty lime, it feels like a party for your taste buds. Trust me, once you try these fritters, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to snacks or sides for gatherings and quick meals alike. So, gather your ingredients, heat that oil, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously fun cooking adventure!