Corn Dog Muffins

Featured in Perfect Finger Foods for Every Occasion.

These corn dog mini muffins bring state fair flavors home without the deep fryer. Sweet, honey-kissed cornbread batter hugs pieces of hot dog, creating perfect two-bite treats that are golden and crispy outside, tender and fluffy inside. The batter comes together quickly - just mix, fold in the hot dog pieces, and let your oven work its magic. The cornbread stays incredibly moist thanks to honey and milk, while the hot dogs add that classic savory flavor throughout. Kids love finding them in lunch boxes, and they're always a hit at parties. Serve with yellow mustard for the authentic experience.
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Updated on Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:55:38 GMT
The image shows a tray of cornbread muffins topped with sliced hot dogs. Pin it
The image shows a tray of cornbread muffins topped with sliced hot dogs. | cookingkeys.com

I created these corn dog muffins during a rainy day when my kids were craving fair food. The magic happens when fluffy cornbread wraps around bite-sized hot dogs creating perfect little handheld treats. Now they're our go-to for everything from after-school snacks to party appetizers bringing that carnival joy right to your kitchen.

Why This Works

Every bite brings sweet golden cornbread wrapped around savory hot dogs just like the fair but without all the mess. Takes simple pantry ingredients turns them into something that makes everyone smile. Perfect for busy days when you need something fun and filling that travels well too.

Your Shopping List

  • The Base: Good yellow cornmeal all-purpose flour makes them tender. Fresh baking soda keeps them fluffy sugar adds just enough sweetness.
  • Wet Stuff: Tangy buttermilk beaten egg melted butter makes everything rich. Brown that butter if you want extra flavor.
  • The Stars: Your favorite hot dogs cut into perfect bites maybe some sharp cheddar cheese for topping.

Let's Make Them

Start Your Batter
Mix those dry ingredients first then add your wet ones stir just until combined. Don't overmix keeps them tender.
Fill Your Tins
Spoon batter into greased mini muffin cups about two-thirds full gives room to rise.
Add The Fun
Pop those hot dog pieces right in the center press gentle. Add cheese if you want makes them extra special.
Bake To Golden
Into your hot oven they go watch them turn perfect and golden about ten minutes does it.
A close-up view of golden-brown cornbread muffins topped with slices of sausage and sprinkled with green herbs in a muffin tray. Pin it
A close-up view of golden-brown cornbread muffins topped with slices of sausage and sprinkled with green herbs in a muffin tray. | cookingkeys.com

Kitchen Secrets

Grease those muffin tins really well helps them pop right out. Cut hot dogs same size keeps everything even. Let them cool just a few minutes in the pan makes them easier to remove. Try browning your butter first adds amazing flavor.

Serve Them Right

Set out ketchup mustard maybe some honey for dipping. Warm from the oven they're absolutely irresistible. Pack them in lunch boxes they're perfect room temperature too. Some coleslaw on the side makes it feel like a real fair meal.

Save Some For Later

These freeze beautifully up to three months wrapped well. Warm them quick in the oven when ready to eat. Make a double batch while you're at it they disappear fast. Perfect for busy days when you need quick snacks.

Mix It Up

Try different hot dogs spicy ones work great here. Add corn kernels to the batter brings extra sweetness. Sometimes I mix in diced jalapeños for grown-ups. The recipe welcomes creativity while keeping that fun corn dog spirit.

A plate of cornbread muffins topped with slices of hot dogs. Pin it
A plate of cornbread muffins topped with slices of hot dogs. | cookingkeys.com

Make Them Yours

Play with add-ins until you find your perfect combination. My kids love extra cheese husband adds hot sauce. Some friends make them spicy others keep them classic. That's what makes cooking fun taking a simple idea making it exactly how your family loves it.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular muffin tins?
Not recommended as hot dogs would need to be cut larger and baking time would vary significantly.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Keep in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days. Can be eaten cold or reheated.
→ Can I freeze these?
Yes, freeze in airtight container up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
→ Why brown the butter?
Browning adds nutty, rich flavor to the cornbread. Regular melted butter works fine too.

Corn Dog Muffins

Mini cornbread muffins with hot dog pieces baked inside. A fun twist on classic corn dogs that's perfect for lunch boxes.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Servings (20 mini muffins)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 ½ cup yellow cornmeal.
02 ½ cup all-purpose flour.
03 1 teaspoon baking powder.
04 ¼ teaspoon baking soda.
05 ⅛ teaspoon salt.
06 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
07 ¼ cup butter, melted.
08 1 egg.
09 ½ cup buttermilk.
10 5-6 hot dogs.
11 Mustard, ketchup, relish for serving.

Instructions

Step 01

Heat oven to 375°F. Spray mini muffin tin with baking spray.

Step 02

Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Step 03

Whisk melted butter, egg, and buttermilk separately.

Step 04

Mix wet into dry ingredients until smooth. Cut hot dogs into 1-inch pieces.

Step 05

Fill muffin wells, add hot dog piece to each. Bake 8-10 minutes until golden.

Notes

  1. Use mini muffin tin only.
  2. Keeps 4 days refrigerated.
  3. Can be eaten cold.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mini muffin tin.
  • Mixing bowls.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy.
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 20 g
  • Protein: 6 g