Name: Oven Baked Corn Dogs
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 24 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boxes of corn muffin mix, each weighing 8 1/2 ounces (recommended brand: Jiffy); 1 cup of all-purpose flour; 2 eggs; 3/4 cup of milk; 1/2 stick of butter, melted; 1 tablespoon of chili powder (estimated amount); 2 teaspoons of cumin (estimated amount); 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper sauce (recommended brands: Tabasco or Frank s Red Hot); 2 scallions, finely chopped; 8 jumbo pork or beef franks; Sweet Relish Slaw Salad (recipe below); 1 bag of reduced fat potato chips (recommended brands: Cape Cod or Terra Garlic and Onion flavor Yukon chips); 1 cup of sweet pickle relish; 1/4 cup of cider vinegar (estimated amount); 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil (estimated amount); 2 large cloves of garlic, crushed; 2 dried bay leaves; 3 whole cloves; 1 pound of shredded cabbage salad (slaw salad mix with carrots and red cabbage, available in the produce department labeled as Cole Slaw Mix in 1 pound packages; Salt and pepper (to taste); 4 scallions, sliced

Are you craving the deliciousness of corn dogs but don't want to deal with the hassle of frying? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the wonderful world of oven-baked corn dogs. This easy and convenient method will give you the same crispy coating and juicy hot dog center, without the mess and added calories of deep frying. So, let's dive in and discover the secrets to making perfect oven-baked corn dogs!

Why Choose Oven Baked Corn Dogs?

Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown cornbread coating that is slightly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. With oven-baked corn dogs, you can achieve this delightful texture while reducing the amount of oil used in traditional frying methods. Plus, baking allows the hot dog to cook evenly and retain its juicy goodness. It's a win-win situation for your taste buds and your waistline!

The Secret to Perfect Oven Baked Corn Dogs

The key to achieving corn dog perfection lies in the cornbread batter. A good cornbread batter should be thick enough to coat the hot dog without sliding off, but not too thick that it becomes heavy. It should have the right balance of moisture and leavening agents to create a fluffy and light texture. Don't worry, we've got you covered with a foolproof cornbread batter recipe that will make your oven-baked corn dogs a hit every time!

How to Make the Cornbread Batter

Making the cornbread batter is a breeze. Simply combine the dry ingredients - flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt - in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients - milk, melted butter, honey, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough batter.

Coating the Hot Dogs

Now comes the fun part - coating the hot dogs with the cornbread batter. Insert a wooden skewer or popsicle stick into each hot dog, leaving a bit of the stick exposed for easy handling. Dip each hot dog into the cornbread batter, rotating it to ensure an even coating. Gently shake off any excess batter, then place the coated hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Baking the Corn Dogs to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400째F (200째C) and bake the corn dogs for about 15-20 minutes or until the cornbread coating is golden brown and crispy. Remember to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Once they are done, remove the corn dogs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of hot dog?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of hot dog - beef, chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian hot dogs. The cornbread coating will complement any variety.

Can I make oven-baked corn dogs ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the corn dogs as instructed, but instead of baking them immediately, place them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake them according to the instructions.

What can I serve with oven-baked corn dogs?

Oven-baked corn dogs pair well with various condiments such as mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise. You can also serve them with a side of french fries, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze oven-baked corn dogs?

Yes, you can! Once the corn dogs have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350째F (180째C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Can I use a different type of batter?

While cornbread batter is the classic choice for corn dogs, you can certainly experiment with different batters. Try using a pancake batter or a beer batter for a unique twist on this classic carnival treat.

Can I make mini corn dogs?

Absolutely! To make mini corn dogs, simply cut the hot dogs into smaller pieces before coating them with the cornbread batter. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they cook through.

Can I use a gluten-free cornbread batter?

Yes, you can! There are many gluten-free cornbread mixes available in stores, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour and cornmeal. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package or recipe for the best results.

Can I make oven-baked corn dogs without a skewer or stick?

Absolutely! While using a skewer or stick makes it easier to handle and eat the corn dogs, you can still coat and bake them without one. Simply place the coated hot dogs directly on the baking sheet, ensuring they are well spaced apart.

Can I make oven-baked corn dogs without cornbread batter?

While cornbread batter is the traditional choice for corn dogs, you can get creative and try using other batters. For example, you can use a biscuit dough or even a puff pastry dough for a different flavor and texture.

So there you have it - a foolproof guide to making delicious oven-baked corn dogs. With this simple method, you can enjoy the classic carnival treat anytime, without the hassle of deep frying. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in crispy, golden-brown perfection!