Air Fryer Corndogs: How Long Before They're Done?

Corn dogs are a popular snack, evoking childhood memories of summer treats and fun at the fair. While they can be cooked in a microwave or oven, using an air fryer is a game-changer as it gives them a perfectly golden and crispy texture while keeping the inside juicy. The air fryer also eliminates the need for oil, making it a healthier option. The cooking time for corn dogs in an air fryer varies depending on the brand and size of the corn dogs, but on average, it takes around 10-16 minutes at a temperature setting of 350-370°F.

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature and time for cooking corn dogs in an air fryer depends on the brand of air fryer and the brand of corn dogs. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you achieve the perfect crispy corn dogs.

Firstly, preheat your air fryer. Most recipes suggest preheating to around 350-370°F for about 5 minutes. However, some recipes suggest cooking at 360°F without preheating.

Next, arrange your corn dogs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents overcrowding. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you can cook between 1 and 6 corn dogs at a time.

Now, it's time to cook! The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your corn dogs and the brand of your air fryer. For regular-sized corn dogs, cook for around 10-16 minutes. For mini corn dogs, reduce the cooking time to 8-12 minutes. It is recommended to flip the corn dogs halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.

To check if your corn dogs are cooked, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the corn dogs should reach 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut into one of the corn dogs to ensure it is cooked through.

Once cooked, remove the corn dogs from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Be careful, as the wooden sticks will be very hot. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!

No need to thaw

There is no need to thaw corn dogs before placing them in the air fryer. In fact, it is recommended that you put them in frozen. This is because the air fryer cooks the corn dogs evenly and efficiently straight from frozen, and they will be ready in about 10 minutes. If you thaw the corn dogs before putting them in the air fryer, the breading may become compromised and crack open as it cooks.

To cook corn dogs in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the frozen corn dogs in the air fryer basket or wire rack, ensuring they are in a single layer with space between them so they do not touch. You do not need to add any extra oil or cooking spray, but you can if you want the corn dogs to be crispier. Air fry for 10 to 16 minutes, until the corn dogs are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remove the corn dogs from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving with your favourite dipping sauce. Some popular dipping sauces for corn dogs include ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, cheese sauce, fry sauce, sriracha mayo, and hot sauce.

If you have any leftover corn dogs, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, air fry for 4 to 6 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or until warmed through.

Best corn dog brands

Air fryers are a great way to cook corn dogs, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. But what are the best corn dog brands to cook?

State Fair

State Fair is a Texas-based company that offers Beef Corn Dogs and Classic Corn Dogs, which are made with authentic honey and authentic beef. The beef corn dogs are highly rated for their juicy meat and fluffy, sweet batter. The classic corn dogs are also rated highly for their tasty batter and meat ratio.

Bar S

Bar S is another brand that understands the structure of a good corn dog. Their classic honey-dipped corn dogs are tasty and don't go soggy in the microwave. They are also good value for money, with a large frank and a good amount of batter.

Foster Farms

Foster Farms offers a range of corn dog products, including Honey Crunchy Corn Dogs and Mini Corn Dogs. The honey crunchy variety is juicy and sweet, with a soft, puffy texture. The mini corn dogs, however, have been criticised for their soggy batter and bland taste.

Kid Cuisine Mini Corn Dogs

These corn dogs are a surprise winner, as they are usually associated with low-quality food. The mini corn dogs have a good batter-to-meat ratio, and the meat is surprisingly tasty.

Great Value

Great Value's classic corn dogs are juicy and offer good value for money. However, their mini corn dogs have been criticised for their soggy batter and bland taste.

MorningStar Farms

MorningStar Farms offers vegetarian corn dogs that are chewy, wheaty, and soft. They are a good option for those who are vegetarian but miss the corn dog experience.

So, there you have it! The next time you're craving corn dogs, be sure to try out one of these brands and cook them to perfection in your air fryer.

Dipping sauces

While corn dogs are delicious on their own, they can be even better with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas for sauces that will perfectly complement the crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior of your air-fried corn dogs:

• Honey Mustard: A classic combination of honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a small chopped jalapeño pepper for a hint of heat. You can also add some vinegar to taste.
• Ranch: Prepare or purchase your favourite ranch dressing and kick it up a notch by adding crushed red pepper and granulated garlic.
• BBQ Mayo: A simple mixture of equal parts barbecue sauce and mayonnaise creates a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs well with corn dogs.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like it spicy, try dipping your corn dogs in a hot sauce such as chile de arbol or mango habanero.
• Ketchup: A traditional condiment that goes well with corn dogs.
• Mustard: A classic yellow mustard is a standard choice, but you can also mix things up with dijon mustard, honey mustard, or even Korean mustard.
• Relish: The sweet and tangy flavour of relish can add a nice twist to your corn dog dipping experience.
• Sauerkraut: For a unique combination of flavours, mix sauerkraut with mustard and a splash of pickle juice.
• Cheese: For an extra indulgent treat, dip your corn dogs in melted cheese or even mozzarella sticks.
• Aioli: Corn dogs can be elevated with any type of aioli you desire, from classic garlic aioli to more creative flavours.

Reheating

If you have leftover corn dogs, you can reheat them in the air fryer. They will have softened in the fridge, so to crisp them back up, air fry for 4-6 minutes at 350°F (177°C) or until warmed through.

If you want to reheat corn dogs that have been kept at room temperature, you can follow the same instructions as for cooking frozen corn dogs. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F to 370°F (177°C to 188°C) and cook for 10 to 16 minutes, flipping halfway through.

You can also microwave corn dogs for 30 seconds before putting them in the air fryer to ensure they are heated through.

Frequently asked questions