Are you looking for a quick, fun, and delicious dinner idea that's both kid-friendly and surprisingly healthy? Look no further! These Corn Dog Muffins are the perfect solution – a clever twist on the classic corn dog, made easier and healthier with a muffin tin. These mini corn dogs are perfect for a weeknight dinner, a fun weekend brunch, or even a party snack. Get ready to enjoy a taste of childhood with a grown-up upgrade!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup cooked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces (pork, chicken, or turkey sausage work well)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin. This ensures your corn dog muffins bake evenly and release easily.
Prepare the Batter:
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This creates the dry base for your delicious muffins.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter. This combines the wet ingredients, adding richness and moisture.
-
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
-
Stir in the cheese (if using). The cheese adds a delightful salty and savory flavor to complement the sausage.
Assemble and Bake:
-
Fill each muffin cup about halfway with batter.
-
Add 1-2 pieces of cooked sausage to the center of each muffin cup. Adjust the number of sausage pieces depending on your preference.
-
Top each muffin with the remaining batter, filling the cups almost to the top.
-
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the corn dog muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Corn Dog Muffins:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or garlic powder to the batter.
- Don't overmix the batter – a few lumps are fine!
- If you prefer a spicier kick, use spicy sausage.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with crumbled vegan sausage or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on sausage type and added cheese)
- Protein: 7-10g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a classic dish with a fun and convenient twist. These corn dog muffins are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun weekend brunch, or a delicious party snack. They are also a great way to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Enjoy!