Dinner

Jalapeño Corn Fritters with Cilantro Lime Dipping Sauce Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery November 9, 2025November 9, 2025

Introduction

Jalapeño Corn Fritters are crispy, spicy, and full of fresh flavors, making them the perfect snack or appetizer. The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the heat of jalapeños, while a tangy dipping sauce adds a refreshing finish. These fritters are quick to make and sure to please any crowd.

A white tray lined with white parchment paper holds a pile of golden brown fried corn fritters, each piece dotted with bright yellow corn kernels and topped with slices of fresh green jalapeño peppers. On the right side of the tray, there is a small round white bowl filled with a creamy orange dipping sauce garnished lightly with green herbs. The background surface shows a white marbled texture, and a blurred edge of another white bowl with a creamy white sauce and a dollop of green herb is visible in the upper right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
2 jalapeños, finely diced (adjust based on desired heat level)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Stir well to mix the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Add the egg and milk to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick batter forms.
Step 3: Gently fold in the corn kernels, diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and grated cheddar cheese if using until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
Step 5: Use a tablespoon to scoop the batter into the hot oil. Press each scoop down gently to form a round fritter. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 6: Cook each fritter for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 7: In a small bowl, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper to make the dipping sauce.
Step 8: Serve the fritters warm with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat. Removing the seeds will reduce spiciness.
For added flavor, try mixing in diced red bell pepper or green onions.
Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
Use avocado oil instead of vegetable oil for frying to add a mild, buttery flavor.
Serve with salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce as an alternative to the sour cream dip.

Storage

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until crispy again. The dipping sauce is best kept separate and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with crispy golden-brown fritters that have pieces of bright yellow corn and sliced green jalapeños visible in each piece. The fritters have a rough, crunchy texture with some jagged edges and a deep brown fried color. Next to the bowl is a small white container with a creamy light orange dipping sauce speckled with green and red herbs. A woman's hand is reaching toward the bowl, suggesting the act of picking a fritter. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface lined with light brown parchment paper underneath the bowl and sauce container. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

Can these fritters be baked instead of fried?

You can bake them on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, but frying will give a crispier texture.