It all started back in the summer of ’09. We were hosting our annual backyard barbecue, and I wanted to whip up something special. So, I thought to myself, why not merge two of America’s classics? The reaction was exactly as I’d hoped. Between the laughter, the kids’ playful screams, and the sizzle of the batter hitting the hot oil, there was a new family tradition in the making. Every time I make these, I’m transported back to those sunny afternoons, surrounded by loved ones, laughter echoing in the air. There’s a kind of magic in food that creates and stirs up cherished memories.
Before we dive into it, a couple of tips right off the bat. Make sure you’ve got a good, deep pot for frying. It’s all about getting that perfect golden brown finish. And don’t forget the spicy mustard; it gives that extra zing that ties everything together. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get into making these indulgent bacon cheeseburger corn dogs a staple at your own family gatherings. It’s time to bring a bit of joyous, culinary chaos into your kitchen. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
How to Make Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs
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Ingredients:
- 6 cups Krusteaz Pancake Mix
- 2 cups Yellow Cornmeal
- 2 large Eggs, lightly beaten
- 6 cups Water (add more if the batter needs thinning)
- Hot Dogs
- Cheese sticks, cut into 1/2-inch x 3-inch pieces
- Chopsticks
- Canola Oil for frying
- Spicy Mustard for serving
Directions:
- In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together the pancake mix and cornmeal until thoroughly mixed.
- Slowly incorporate water into the dry ingredients, while continuously whisking to form a sleek batter. Adjust with more water if necessary to reach desired consistency.
- Integrate the beaten eggs into the mixture, ensuring a smooth and homogenous blend.
- Preheat your canola oil in a large pot or fryer to 375°F, ensuring it reaches adequate frying temperature.
- As the oil heats up, insert a chopstick into each hot dog. Puncture some cheese sticks for added flavor thrills, then immerse them fully into the batter until coated evenly.
- Gently submerge the battered hot dogs into the sizzling oil, a few at a time, frying them until they develop a warm golden hue — roughly 3-4 minutes.
- Carefully retrieve them from the oil and place them on paper towels for a brief drain of excess oil.
- Serve promptly with a side of spicy mustard for an accompanying zest, and relish your culinary creation!
Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry
Missing an ingredient? No worries! You can substitute the pancake mix with any other similar all-purpose blend. If yellow cornmeal is unavailable, white cornmeal works equally well. For an added kick, swap out spicy mustard with a honey-Dijon blend or add jalapeño slices near the cheese for that additional spark in every bite.
Leftovers? Here’s How to Store Them Properly
To keep your leftover corn dogs as fresh as possible, let them cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them individually to extend their shelf life. Simply pop them in an oven at 350°F to reheat for about 10-12 minutes, and they’ll taste just as good as when you first made them!
Perfect Pairings for Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs
Serve these corn dogs with a side of crispy fries or a fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the richness. For drink pairings, a cold brew or a refreshing lemonade will match wonderfully with their savory, indulgent flavor profile. Consider setting up a dipping sauce bar, with options like ranch, barbecue, and ketchup for a fun and interactive meal.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs
Ensure your oil is at the right temperature by using a cooking thermometer. This prevents your batter from soaking up unwanted oil. For an even richer flavor, try using smoked cheddar cheese sticks. Lastly, don’t skip drying the hot dogs before dipping; this helps the batter stick better, ensuring even frying.
Seasonal Twists for Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs
Make these corn dogs a seasonal treat! In the summer, toss in some freshly chopped basil or mint into the batter for extra freshness. During fall, add a dash of smoky paprika or cumin for warmth. For winter gatherings, why not add a bit of crushed chili to the batter to spice things up? Each season brings a new flavor to these corn dogs!
FAQs:
Can I make these Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, it’s best to fry the corn dogs just before serving to retain their crispy texture. If you’re short on time, fry them in advance and reheat in an oven at 350°F until they’re hot and crispy.
What is the best oil for frying these corn dogs?
Canola oil is an excellent choice due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which ensures your deep-fried corn dogs become a beautifully golden brown without imparting any additional taste to the dish, showcasing the original flavors perfectly.
Are there any dietary modifications possible for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, substitute the pancake mix with a gluten-free alternative. Vegetarian versions can use plant-based hot dogs and cheese options. Always consider the dietary preferences and needs of your guests to make the dish as inclusive as possible.
How can I make the batter spicier?
To add a spicy kick to your batter, consider incorporating chili powder or cayenne pepper. You can also add finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the batter. Adjust the quantities according to your heat preference to ensure you get the perfect level of spiciness.
What if I don’t have chopsticks for this recipe?
No chopsticks, no problem! You can substitute them with wooden skewers or sturdy straws. Just ensure whatever you’re using is strong enough to support the weight of the corn dog as you dip and fry them, to avoid any kitchen mishaps.
Can the Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs be baked instead of fried?
While frying provides that classic crispy texture, you can bake them as an alternative. Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the battered corn dogs on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and heated through. It’s a healthier twist on the traditional method!
Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs
Equipment
- Deep fryer or large pot
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Batter:
- 6 cups Krusteaz Pancake Mix
- 2 cups Yellow Cornmeal
- 2 large Eggs lightly beaten
- 6 cups Water add more if needed to thin the batter
For Corn Dogs:
- Hot Dogs
- Cheese sticks cut into 1/2-inch x 3-inch pieces
- Chopsticks
- Canola Oil for frying
- Spicy Mustard for serving
Instructions
For the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix and cornmeal until thoroughly mixed.
- Slowly mix in the water, stirring continuously until the batter is smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional water if necessary.
- Incorporate the beaten eggs into the mixture until well combined.
For Frying:
- Heat canola oil in either a deep fryer or a large pot to a temperature of around 375°F.
- Prep the hot dogs and cheese sticks by inserting chopsticks into the hot dogs, then dip them in the batter ensuring they're well coated.
- Gently place the battered hot dogs into the hot oil, cooking a few at a time until they reach a golden brown color, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the corn dogs and set them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the corn dogs warm with a side of spicy mustard for dipping. Enjoy your tasty treats!
