Air fryer corn dogs are the ultimate comfort food made quicker and healthier. Whether you’re using frozen corn dogs straight from the freezer or homemade batter-dipped ones, the air fryer gives them a perfectly crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy and delicious. These corn dogs are a great treat for kids, perfect for parties, quick snacks, or even nostalgic dinners. Best of all, there’s no deep frying involved—less oil, less mess, and less hassle!
Nutrition (Per Frozen Corn Dog):
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Nutrition values vary for homemade versions depending on batter and hot dog brand used.
Prep Time
- 2 minutes (for frozen)
- 15 minutes (for homemade)
Active Time
- 8–10 minutes
Resting Time
- 2 minutes
Total Time
- 12–18 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings (1 corn dog each)
Cuisine
- American
Course
- Snack / Lunch / Party Appetizer
Equipment:
- Air Fryer (basket or oven-style)
- Tongs
- Cooking spray (optional)
- Parchment liners (optional for homemade)
Ingredients:
For Frozen Corn Dogs:
- 4 frozen corn dogs (regular or mini)
- Optional: Cooking spray for extra crispiness
For Homemade Corn Dogs:
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 wooden skewers
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
- 1 large egg
- Optional: A little flour for dusting hot dogs before dipping
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Frozen Corn Dogs in Air Fryer:
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 2: Arrange the Corn Dogs
Place frozen corn dogs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Optionally spray with a light coat of oil for added crispiness.
Step 3: Air Fry
Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Mini corn dogs may only need 6–8 minutes.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. Pair with ketchup, mustard, or honey for dipping.
Homemade Corn Dogs in Air Fryer:
Step 1: Prep the Hot Dogs
Insert wooden skewers into each hot dog, leaving enough of the stick exposed to act as a handle.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, mix together:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk and 1 egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients into a thick batter.
Step 3: Coat the Hot Dogs
Roll the hot dogs lightly in flour (this helps batter stick). Dip them into the batter until fully coated.
Step 4: Prepare Air Fryer
Line the air fryer basket with parchment or spray with cooking spray. Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Cook
Carefully place the battered corn dogs in the basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let them cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed fresh with your favorite dips!
Tips & Variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for batter.
- Cheese-Stuffed: Slice open hot dogs and add cheese before battering.
- Sweet Touch: Add a dash of honey to the batter.
- Crispier Corn Dogs: Spray with oil before air frying.
- Make It Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the batter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic combo: Corn dogs with fries and coleslaw.
- As an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces.
- Pair with mac and cheese for a fun kids’ meal.
- Serve mini corn dogs at parties on skewers with honey mustard.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked homemade corn dogs up to 2 months.
- Reheat in Air Fryer: 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until warmed through.
