# Components:
→ Filling
01 - 6 mozzarella cheese sticks, halved lengthwise (or 12 mini mozzarella sticks)
02 - 6 hot dogs (optional, for half-and-half corn dogs)
03 - 12 wooden skewers
→ Batter
04 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar
06 - 1 tsp baking powder
07 - 1/2 tsp salt
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 3/4 cup milk
→ Coating
10 - 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
11 - 1/2 cup cornmeal (optional)
→ Frying
12 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
→ Topping
13 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
14 - Ketchup, to taste
15 - Yellow mustard, to taste
# Directions:
01 - Cut hot dogs in half if using. Skewer mozzarella sticks and/or hot dog halves onto wooden sticks, ensuring either all-cheese or half-cheese/half-hot dog combinations. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Incorporate egg and milk, stirring until a thick, sticky batter forms. Adjust consistency with additional milk if too thick; batter should coat skewers without dripping.
03 - Combine panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal on a plate, mixing evenly.
04 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot to a depth of 2 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat.
05 - Dip each skewer into the batter, turning to fully coat. Use a spoon if necessary to ensure even coverage.
06 - Roll battered skewers in breadcrumb-cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere an even layer.
07 - Fry 2-3 skewers simultaneously, turning occasionally until golden brown and crisp, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
08 - While still hot, lightly sprinkle each corn dog with granulated sugar. Drizzle ketchup and mustard as desired. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.