Cheesy Corn Fritters

Golden crispy corn fritters stacked high with melted cheese oozing out and fresh green herbs on top | lonerecipes.com

I first discovered these corn fritters at a local farmers market, where a vendor was serving them hot and fresh from a small fryer. The aroma drew me in from across the market - that perfect combination of sweet corn and melted cheese was impossible to resist. When I took that first bite, the crispy exterior gave way to the most incredible tender interior, packed with sweet corn kernels and stretches of melted cheese. The vendor was kind enough to share some tips with me, and I've been perfecting this recipe ever since. What I love most about these fritters is how they capture the essence of summer corn in every single bite. The cheese adds richness and helps bind everything together, while the fresh herbs provide a bright finish.

Why I love this recipe

What makes me absolutely love this recipe is its incredible versatility and the pure joy it brings to everyone who tries it. These fritters are the perfect comfort food - they're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with that irresistible combination of sweet corn and melted cheese. I love how easy they are to make, yet they always feel special and impressive. The recipe is forgiving too - you can adjust the cheese, add different herbs, or even throw in some jalapeños for heat. Every time I make them, they disappear within minutes, and I'm always asked for the recipe. There's something magical about the way the corn kernels pop with sweetness against the rich, creamy cheese.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Fresh corn kernels: Cut from 4-5 ears of corn or use 2 cups frozen, thawed and drained
Cheddar cheese: Shred fresh for best melting quality and flavor
All-purpose flour: Sift before measuring for lighter fritters
Eggs: Use at room temperature for better incorporation
Green onions: Chop both white and green parts for maximum flavor
Milk: Whole milk works best for richness

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the dry mix: Start by whisking together your flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This ensures all your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and will give you consistent fritters every time.

Create the corn mixture: In another bowl, beat your eggs with milk until smooth, then fold in the corn kernels, cheese, and green onions. The cheese will help bind everything together while adding that irresistible gooey factor.

Combine everything gently: Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together just until combined. Don't overmix - you want a chunky, thick batter that holds together well but isn't tough.

Get that oil ready: Heat your oil to the perfect temperature - when you drop a bit of batter in, it should sizzle immediately but not violently. This ensures crispy outsides without burning.

Fry to golden perfection: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and watch the magic happen. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels before serving hot.

Recipe picture — Stack of homemade corn fritters with cheese stretching between layers and fresh scallions garnish | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I remember the first time I made these corn fritters - it was during a summer barbecue when I had way too much fresh corn on hand. I was experimenting in the kitchen, trying to find a new way to use up all that sweet corn, when I stumbled upon this recipe. The smell that filled my kitchen as they were frying was absolutely incredible. My neighbors actually came over asking what smelled so amazing! The combination of the crispy exterior and that molten cheese center was pure magic. Now, whenever I have fresh corn, these fritters are the first thing I think of making. They've become my go-to recipe for impressing guests.

Perfect Pairings

These cheesy corn fritters pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad for a light meal, or pair them with grilled meats for a hearty dinner. They're fantastic with a dollop of sour cream, fresh salsa, or even a drizzle of honey for those who like a sweet-savory combination. For beverages, they go wonderfully with iced tea, lemonade, or even a cold beer on a hot summer day.

Close up view of perfectly fried cheesy corn fritters with visible corn kernels and golden brown crust | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?: Yes, you can use frozen corn kernels, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using. Fresh corn will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen works in a pinch.
→ What type of cheese works best for these fritters?: Cheddar cheese is ideal because it melts well and has great flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a Mexican cheese blend. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible as fresh-shredded melts better.
→ How do I know when the oil is the right temperature?: The oil should be around 350°F. If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small bit of batter into the oil - it should sizzle immediately and start browning within 30 seconds without burning.
→ Can these fritters be made ahead of time?: These are best served immediately while crispy, but you can keep them warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes. For longer storage, refrigerate and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
→ My fritters are falling apart in the oil, what went wrong?: This usually happens when the batter is too wet or the oil isn't hot enough. Make sure your batter is thick enough to hold together, and ensure the oil is properly heated before adding the fritters.

Conclusion