Cornbread fritters are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavor of cornbread with the crispy, golden texture of a fritter. Whether you’re looking for a tasty snack, a side dish, or a fun appetizer, learning how to make cornbread fritters is a great skill to have in your cooking repertoire. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make delicious cornbread fritters at home — with simple ingredients, easy steps, and some tips to make them extra special.
What Are Cornbread Fritters?
Cornbread fritters are small, fried cakes made from a batter that includes cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, and often whole corn kernels. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a slightly sweet and savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with butter, honey, or even spicy dips. They’re popular in Southern cooking but loved everywhere for their comforting taste and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for making classic cornbread fritters:
– 2 cups fine ground cornmeal
– ¼ cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour with a pinch of baking powder)
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 cup water
– ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
– ¼ cup vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
– 1 large egg
– Optional: ½ cup canned or fresh corn kernels for extra texture
– Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar or Jack cheese for a savory twist
– Optional: Honey and salted butter for serving
These ingredients come together to create a thick batter that fries up into perfect little golden cakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Line a plate with paper towels to drain the fritters after frying. This helps keep them crispy and not greasy.
2. Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, and salt. Add water, milk, vegetable oil, and the egg. Stir until you have a thick, smooth batter. If you want to add corn kernels or cheese, fold them in gently now.
3. Heat the Oil
Heat a cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and let it warm until shimmering but not smoking.
4. Fry the Fritters
Drop the batter by tablespoonfuls into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon or spatula. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the fritters.
5. Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked fritters to the paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed. Serve warm with salted butter and honey, or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread Fritters
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches so the oil temperature stays consistent and fritters crisp up nicely.
– Use fresh or canned corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture, but canned corn works great too—just drain it well.
– Try buttermilk: Substituting buttermilk for regular milk adds a subtle tang and tender crumb.
– Add cheese or herbs: Mix in cheddar cheese, green onions, or fresh herbs for a savory upgrade.
– Keep the oil hot: Around 350-375°F is ideal for frying. Too cool and fritters absorb oil; too hot and they burn outside before cooking through.
– Make them sweeter: Add a bit of sugar or drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory combo.
Variations to Try
– Maple Cornbread Fritters: Replace water with half milk and half pure maple syrup for a sweet twist.
– Spicy Jalapeño Corn Fritters: Add diced jalapeños and serve with a creamy yogurt sauce for a kick.
– Cheesy Corn Fritters: Fold in shredded sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a rich, savory flavor.
– Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blends in place of regular flour to make these fritters gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Cornbread fritters are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:
– As a side dish with chili, barbecue, or collard greens
– Topped with honey and butter for breakfast or brunch
– Served with ranch, aioli, or spicy dipping sauces as appetizers
– Alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner
They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal or snack time.
Cornbread fritters are easy to make and endlessly customizable. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of frying, you can enjoy these golden, crispy bites that bring a little Southern charm to your kitchen. Try the basic recipe, then experiment with add-ins and toppings to find your perfect fritter flavor. Happy cooking!
Enjoy your homemade cornbread fritters hot and crispy—your taste buds will thank you!