The 3 best frozen corn dogs at your local grocery store
Frozen corn dogs are a nostalgic treat that many people associate with fond childhood memories. Whether enjoyed at state fairs, as an after-school snack with friends, or during weekend family gatherings, these tasty treats hold a special place in our hearts. While personal preferences may vary, there are certain brands of frozen corn dogs that stand out for their superior taste and quality. In this article, we will explore the top three frozen corn dog brands available at your local grocery store.
What Makes a Corn Dog Great
To determine the best frozen corn dogs, it is important to understand the characteristics that make a corn dog truly exceptional. While individual preferences play a role, there are a few key factors that contribute to the overall quality of a corn dog:
- The Batter: The batter of a great corn dog should have a slight sweetness, ideally achieved with honey. It should be crispy on the outside and warm and juicy on the inside.
- Condiments: The choice of condiments is subjective, but they can greatly enhance the flavor of a corn dog. The perfect condiment is a personal choice and can vary from mustard to ketchup or even more adventurous options.
The Best Grocery Store Frozen Corn Dogs
After careful consideration, we have identified three brands of frozen corn dogs that consistently deliver excellent taste and quality. These brands were chosen based on their popularity, unique features and overall customer satisfaction. Here are the top three brands of frozen corn dogs:
1. State Fair Corn Dogs – Beef
State Fair Corn Dogs are known for their delicious taste and ease of preparation. While the classic recipe is made with a combination of chicken, turkey and pork, the all-beef version is a popular choice for those who prefer a beef-based corn dog. Choosing the all-beef version also makes it more inclusive for those with specific dietary restrictions due to religious observances.
Key features:
- Super easy to make, with cooking instructions for microwave, oven or deep fry.
- State Fair is the most popular brand of corn dog, so it is readily available in most grocery stores.
2. Foster Farms Mini Chicken Corn Dogs
Foster Farms Mini Chicken Corn Dogs are a favorite among corn dog lovers. Perfect for parties, these mini corn dogs offer a delightful combination of flavors. Made with high-quality, hormone-free chicken, they offer a healthier option while maintaining the juicy, delicious taste you expect from a corn dog.
Key features:
- Each serving contains 7 grams of protein, making it a relatively healthy snack choice.
- The use of hormone- and steroid-free chicken ensures the highest quality meat products.
3. MorningStar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs
For those looking for a meat-free alternative, MorningStar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs are an excellent choice. These veggie corn dogs are loved by plant-based eaters and omnivores alike. They offer a low-fat, low-calorie option without compromising on taste and texture.
Key features:
- Ideal for individuals following unique eating plans, as they are meat-free.
- MorningStar Farms has committed to making all of its products completely vegan by 2021, making it a leader in catering to diverse dietary preferences.
The best way to cook frozen corn dogs
While traditional frying is often considered the best way to cook corn dogs, there are alternative cooking methods that can produce delicious results with less oil. Here are a few options for cooking frozen corn dogs:
Air-Fried Corn Dogs
Using an air fryer is a preferred method for many corn dog enthusiasts. It offers a quicker cooking time compared to baking in the oven and produces results that are closer to a deep-fried texture. To cook frozen corn dogs in an air fryer, simply unwrap the corn dog and place in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for approximately 7 minutes.
Toast your corn dogs
If you have a toaster oven, it can be a convenient and effective way to cook corn dogs. Place the unwrapped corn dog directly on the rack of the toaster oven and set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook for approximately 8 minutes, turning the corn dog halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. Use care when handling the stick and monitor the toaster oven to prevent smoking.
Baking Corn Dogs in the Oven
Most frozen corn dogs come with oven baking instructions, which usually produce the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the unwrapped frozen corn dogs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 17 minutes, flipping the corn dogs halfway through to get a crisp exterior on both sides.
Microwaved Corn Dogs
While microwaving is a quick and convenient method, it may not produce the same level of crispiness as other cooking methods. To microwave a frozen corn dog, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Conclusion
Frozen corn dogs can be a delicious treat that brings back fond childhood memories. When it comes to finding the best frozen corn dogs at your local grocery store, State Fair Corn Dogs, Foster Farms Mini Chicken Corn Dogs and MorningStar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs stand out for their exceptional taste and quality. Whether you prefer the classic beef corn dog, a mini chicken version, or a meat-free alternative, these brands offer delicious options to suit a variety of dietary preferences. Experiment with different cooking methods such as air frying, toasting, baking or microwaving to find the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness. Enjoy these tasty treats as a snack, party appetizer or as part of a meal.
FAQS
Can I buy frozen corn dogs online or should I buy them at a local grocery store?
While you can purchase frozen corn dogs online, it is generally recommended that you purchase them at a local grocery store as this ensures the freshness of the product and allows you to check for specific brands or options.
What makes a great corn dog?
A great corn dog should have a batter that is slightly sweet, crispy on the outside, and warm and juicy on the inside. The choice of condiments is subjective, but they can greatly enhance the flavor of a corn dog.
Are these frozen corn dogs suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, the selection includes options for a variety of dietary preferences. State Fair Corn Dogs offer an all-beef version that is suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions due to religious observances. Foster Farms Mini Chicken Corn Dogs are made with hormone-free chicken, and MorningStar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs are meat-free for plant-based eaters.
Can I cook frozen Corn Dogs in a deep fryer?
Yes, cooking frozen Corn Dogs in an air fryer is a popular method because it gives a texture similar to deep frying. Simply place the unwrapped Corn Dogs in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for approximately 7 minutes.
How long should I bake frozen Corn Dogs in the oven?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the unwrapped frozen Corn Dogs on a baking sheet for about 17 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior on both sides.
Are there healthier options among the top three brands of frozen corn dogs?
Yes, among the top three brands, Foster Farms Mini Chicken Corn Dogs offer a relatively healthier option, providing 7 grams of protein per serving and using hormone-free chicken. MorningStar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs offer a low-fat, low-calorie alternative suitable for individuals on special dietary requirements.