Crispy Cheddar Corn Fritters (Perfect with Fresh Corn)
Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with sweet corn flavor, these Cheddar Corn Fritters are the ultimate way to celebrate corn season. Each fritter is loaded with juicy corn kernels, lightly spiced batter, and melty cheddar cheese, creating a comforting side dish or appetizer that disappears fast once it hits the table.
These fritters strike the perfect balance between crisp edges and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. They are simple to prepare, use everyday ingredients, and can be served for brunch, lunch, or as a flavorful side dish with almost any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with fresh corn for the best natural sweetness
- Lightly spiced to enhance flavor without overpowering the corn
- Crispy outside, tender and cheesy inside
- Easy skillet recipe with simple ingredients
- Perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer
Ingredients
- 3 ears fresh corn (about 2 cups kernels)
- 3 tablespoons finely diced bell pepper (red, orange, or green)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How to Make Corn Fritters
1. Prepare the Corn
Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the corn for 3 minutes. Drain and allow the cobs to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, cut the kernels from the cob, making sure to scrape the cob to collect the flavorful corn milk.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
Place the corn kernels and corn milk in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced bell pepper, eggs, water, and grated cheddar cheese. Stir gently until well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the dry ingredients to the corn mixture and stir just until the batter is evenly moistened. Fold in the melted butter last.
4. Fry the Fritters
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil, leaving space between each fritter. Fry for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil and season lightly with salt.
5. Serve
Serve warm while the fritters are crisp on the outside and soft inside.
Tips for Best Results
- Fresh corn provides the best flavor and texture, especially because of the natural corn milk released from the cob
- Do not overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and affects crispness
- Keep cooked fritters warm in a low oven while finishing the remaining batches
Make-Ahead and Storage
These fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen. Allow cooked fritters to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables or salads
- Pair with yogurt-based sauces or simple garlic dips
- Enjoy as a snack or light meal with a fresh side salad