Air Fryer Corn Dogs: How Long To Fry?

Air fryers are a great way to make corn dogs, with many recipes suggesting that they are the perfect quick and easy meal or snack for the whole family. The air fryer adds an extra crispiness to corn dogs, giving them a satisfying crunch. They are also a healthier option than deep-fried corn dogs, as they require little to no oil. Most recipes suggest cooking corn dogs in the air fryer for around 6-10 minutes at around 370-400°F/188-204°C, but this may vary depending on the size of the corn dogs and the air fryer model.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for corn dogs in an air fryer depend on the size of the corn dogs and the air fryer model. The cooking temperature typically ranges from 370°F/188°C to 400°F/204°C, and the cooking time varies between 6 and 12 minutes.

For regular-sized corn dogs, it is recommended to air fry at 370°F/188°C for 8-10 minutes, flipping them over halfway through the cooking process. This ensures an even cook on all sides and a crispy texture.

For mini corn dogs, the cooking temperature remains the same, but the cooking time is reduced by a couple of minutes. Air fry mini corn dogs at 370°F/188°C for 6-8 minutes, flipping them over halfway.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the brand of corn dogs and the size of your air fryer. To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to cook the corn dogs in batches and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leave at least a 1/2-inch space between each corn dog to allow proper air circulation.

Additionally, some air fryer models may require preheating, while others may not. Always refer to the specific instructions for your air fryer model.

When cooking corn dogs in an air fryer, there is no need to add any extra oil or spray. Simply place the frozen corn dogs directly into the air fryer basket and cook according to the recommended time and temperature settings.

For the best results, it is advised to flip or turn the corn dogs during the cooking process to ensure even browning and crispness.

If you are cooking corn dogs that are not frozen, the cooking time will be significantly reduced. Cook thawed corn dogs for half the recommended time and then check their doneness. Add 1-2 minutes of cooking time as needed until they reach your desired level of crispness.

Lastly, remember to let the corn dogs cool down a bit before serving as they will be extremely hot straight out of the air fryer.

How to store and reheat

Leftover corn dogs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350–400°F and cook the corn dogs for 3–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can also reheat corn dogs in the oven or the microwave, but they will not be as crispy.

When storing leftover corn dogs, it is important to place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. If you have extra uncooked corn dogs, you can store them in their original packaging or an airtight container in the freezer.

When reheating corn dogs in the air fryer, it is important to preheat the air fryer first to ensure even cooking. The recommended temperature for reheating is 350–400°F, which is higher than the temperature used for cooking. This is because the corn dogs are already cooked, and you are simply reheating and crisping them.

The cooking time for reheating corn dogs is typically shorter than the initial cooking time, ranging from 3–7 minutes. However, different air fryer models may vary, so it is important to keep an eye on the corn dogs to avoid overcooking.

In addition to the air fryer, you can also reheat corn dogs in the oven or the microwave. However, these methods may not produce the same level of crispness as the air fryer. If you choose to use the oven, preheat it to 350°F and heat the corn dogs until they are crisp and heated through. If using the microwave, wrap the corn dogs in a paper towel and heat them in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

By following these simple storage and reheating instructions, you can enjoy delicious and crispy corn dogs even after they have been cooked and stored.

Corn dog dipping sauces

While corn dogs are delicious on their own, they can be made even better with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas for corn dog dipping sauces to elevate your corn dog experience:

Honey Mustard Sauce

A classic combination of sweet and tangy, honey mustard sauce is a perfect pairing for corn dogs. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the mustard provides a savoury kick. This sauce is also great for cutting through the grease of a fried corn dog.

Fresh Sriracha Dressing

For those who like it hot, a fresh sriracha dressing can be a perfect pairing. The sriracha provides a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet kick. To balance out the spice and saltiness, it can be mixed with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Some sugar can also be added for extra sweetness.

Korean Corn Dog Dressing

This dressing is inspired by the Korean street food version of corn dogs, called "Gamja Hot dogs." The dressing is made with gochujang (Korean fermented red pepper paste), finely chopped garlic, and rice wine vinegar or regular vinegar. It adds a spicy, savoury, and slightly sweet kick to your corn dog.

Ranch Tartar Sauce

A unique twist on the classic ranch dressing, this sauce combines ranch with tartar sauce for a tangy and creamy flavour. It's a perfect pairing for corn dogs, especially if you're looking for something different from the usual ketchup and mustard combo.

Italian Marinara Sauce

For a more herbal and savoury option, an Italian marinara sauce can be a great choice. It's made with tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, providing a fresh and flavourful experience. For an extra kick of spice, red pepper flakes can be added.

Mexican Salsa

A fresh and tangy Mexican salsa can be a great way to spice up your corn dog. It's made with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and spices. It adds a burst of flavour and cuts through the grease of the corn dog.

Melted Four-Cheese Dressing

For cheese lovers, a melted four-cheese dressing is a decadent and indulgent option. It's made by melting Monterey Jack cheese with fresh cream and can be drizzled over the corn dog for a rich and cheesy experience. Herbs like basil or cilantro can also be added for extra flavour.

Indian Chutney

Indian chutney is a spicy, tangy, and refreshing condiment that pairs well with fried foods. It's made with green chillies, tamarind, ginger, garlic, mint, coriander, and spices. It adds a unique and exotic twist to your corn dog.

Trimming the sticks

To trim the sticks, use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors. Cut the sticks straight across, ensuring that they are not too close to the corn dog itself. You want to leave enough of the stick to hold onto and dip into your favourite sauces. Aim to cut off just enough so that the corn dogs can lie flat in your air fryer basket without touching the heating element.

If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cut the sticks down further to allow the corn dogs to fit properly. It is important to ensure that the corn dogs are not angled towards the heating element, as this can cause uneven cooking and browning.

Additionally, when placing the corn dogs in the air fryer basket, make sure to leave at least 1/2 inch of space between them. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, so leaving space allows the air to move properly and cook the corn dogs evenly.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your corn dogs cook evenly and fit properly in your air fryer. Trimming the sticks is a crucial step in the process of making delicious, crispy corn dogs with that perfect golden colour.

Air fryer basket sprays

• No Need for Non-Stick Spray: Most air fryer baskets are made with non-stick materials, so you don't need to use any additional oil or spray to prevent sticking. However, if you want that extra assurance, you can lightly spray the basket with a non-stick cooking spray before adding your food. This is especially useful if you're cooking something sticky like corn dogs, which can leave residue behind.
• Spray the Food, Not the Basket: It is generally recommended to spray your food with oil, if needed, rather than the basket. This ensures that the oil is distributed evenly and helps to avoid any excess oil collecting in the bottom of your air fryer.
• Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly: It is important to clean your air fryer after each use to keep it functioning optimally and avoid smoking during cooking. Always refer to your manufacturer's instructions for cleaning guidelines. When hand washing, use mild soap and a soft sponge or toothbrush to scrub away any stuck-on food or grease.
• Try Natural Cleaning Methods: There are various natural cleaning methods you can use to clean your air fryer basket, such as a paste made from baking soda and lemon, or a steam cleaning method using vinegar and lemon juice. These methods can effectively remove grease and odours, leaving your basket fresh and clean.
• Avoid Submerging Your Air Fryer: Never submerge your air fryer in water or turn it on with water and soap inside. Always remove the basket and rack from a basket-style air fryer and wash them separately with warm soapy water. For air fryer toaster ovens, remove the rack, baking sheets, and accessories for cleaning.
• Use Accessories for Easier Cleaning: There are various accessories available for air fryers that can make cleaning easier, such as perforated silicone mats and parchment paper. These can be placed in the basket under your food to catch any drips or residue, making clean-up a breeze.
• Don't Overcrowd Your Air Fryer: When cooking corn dogs or any other food, avoid overcrowding the basket. This can prevent proper air flow and lead to uneven cooking. It's best to cook in batches if you have a lot of food to prepare.
• Trim Skewers if Necessary: If you're cooking corn dogs with wooden skewers, you may need to trim them if they don't fit in your air fryer with the lid closed. This will ensure that the lid closes properly and the hot air can circulate effectively.
• Work in Batches: If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to work in batches to avoid overfilling the basket. This will ensure that your corn dogs (or other foods) cook evenly and achieve the desired crispiness.
• Experiment with Different Brands: Different brands of corn dogs may vary in size, thickness, and coating. You may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature slightly to get the best results. Always refer to the specific instructions for the brand you're using.

Frequently asked questions