Ingredients

3 1/2 cups (420 g) all-purpose flour

1 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp (450 ml) water (lukewarm)

1 tbsp instant yeast

3 tbsp sugar

1 tsp salt

8 sausages or hot dogs

4-6 sticks low moisture mozzarella cheese (or cheese blocks)

4 pieces American cheese slices (individually wrapped, optional)

12 oz (340 g) frozen french fries (about 4 cups when cut into small pieces, optional)

2 cups (120 g) panko breadcrumbs

Oil (for deep-frying)

Sugar (for dusting)

Ketchup (for serving)

Mustard (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large square or oval pan, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, salt, and lukewarm water. Mix with a spoon until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 2: Cover the batter and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

Step 3: Prepare the filling by cutting the hot dogs in half and slicing the mozzarella cheese into pieces of similar size. Skewer a hot dog piece with a cheese piece on top. For an octopus shape, cut a cris-cross pattern at the bottom 1 inch of the hot dog.

Step 4: If using American cheese slices, wrap each slice tightly around a hot dog piece. Chill the skewers in the refrigerator to help them hold their shape during frying.

Step 5: Cut the frozen french fries into small pieces and place them in one pan. In another pan, pour the panko breadcrumbs and set aside.

Step 6: Dip each skewer into the risen batter, lifting and twisting to coat evenly. Smooth the batter with your fingers if needed.

Step 7: Roll the battered skewer first in the chopped potatoes, then in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to secure the coating and preventing cheese from leaking out.

Step 8: Heat oil in a large skillet to 350˚F (175˚C). Fry 1-2 skewers at a time, carefully placing them in the hot oil. Turn occasionally with tongs and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 9: Remove the corn dogs and place on a cooling rack. Dust with sugar and drizzle with ketchup and mustard as desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Tips & Variations

Chilling the skewers before dipping helps the batter stick better and keeps the shape intact during frying.

For a twist, try mixing shredded cheese with the mozzarella for extra flavor.

If you prefer less mess, skip the diced fries coating and stick to just panko breadcrumbs for a classic texture.

Use low moisture mozzarella to avoid excess cheese oozing out while frying.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella?

Yes, you can use cheeses that melt well, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, but mozzarella is preferred for its mild flavor and stretchy texture.

What is the purpose of the frozen french fries in the coating?

The chopped frozen fries add a unique crunchy texture and a fun twist to the traditional breadcrumb coating, making the corn dog extra crispy and delicious.