How to Make Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls (Appetizers)

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Elote Egg Rolls bring all the vibrant flavors of Mexican elote (street corn) into a crispy, cheesy, and irresistible egg roll. The combination of charred corn, creamy cheeses, and a hint of spice makes them the perfect bite-sized appetizer. Whether you’re frying or air frying, these egg rolls are quick to make, and the avocado-lime dipping sauce adds a refreshing finish to each bite.

Ingredients

For the Egg Rolls

• 1 pack egg roll wrappers
• Fry oil (if deep frying)
• 2 ears of corn on the cob or 1 ½ cans of corn, drained
• 8 oz block of cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 jalapeños, diced
• 1 shallot, diced
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 1 tsp Tajín chili lime seasoning

For the Avocado-Lime Sauce

• ½ cup sour cream
• Juice of 2 limes
• ¼ cup cilantro
• ½ avocado
• Pinch of salt (for the sauce)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the cream cheese: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature by setting it out for 45 minutes, or microwave it for 30–45 seconds to soften.
2. Char the corn: Grill, broil, or pan-sear the corn until lightly charred. If using canned corn, drain and pat it dry.
3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the charred corn, cream cheese, mozzarella, diced jalapeños, shallot, salt, pepper, and Tajín seasoning. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Prepare the egg rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling near the bottom corner.
5. Roll the egg rolls: Roll up the wrapper halfway, then wet the edges with a little water. Fold the side corners in, and continue rolling to seal the egg roll.
6. To deep fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the egg rolls for 3–4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. To air fry: Spray the egg rolls with cooking spray and cook them at 390°F (200°C) for 6 minutes. Flip them and cook for another 6 minutes until golden and crispy.
8. Make the avocado-lime sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, avocado, and salt. Blend until smooth.
9. Serve: Serve the crispy egg rolls hot with the avocado-lime dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 egg rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Swap: Try swapping mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat. You can also add diced serrano peppers for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the cream cheese with a plant-based option, and use dairy-free mozzarella.
• Extra Toppings: For even more flavor, top with crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the egg rolls in an air fryer for 3–5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, bake them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before using.

2. Can I assemble the egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg rolls in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent the wrappers from drying out.

3. Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crisp, healthier version.

4. What can I serve with these egg rolls?

These egg rolls are great on their own, but you can pair them with other appetizers like guacamole, salsa, or a Mexican street corn salad for a full spread.

5. Can I freeze these egg rolls?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked egg rolls for future use. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cook time.

6. How can I make these spicier?

Add extra jalapeños, or toss in some chili flakes, chipotle powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for added heat.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack to change up the flavor.

8. How can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free egg roll wrappers to make these egg rolls gluten-free.

9. Can I use store-bought guacamole for dipping?

Yes, store-bought guacamole can be a quick and easy alternative to homemade avocado-lime sauce.

10. Can I skip the avocado-lime sauce?

The sauce adds a creamy and tangy element, but you can serve these egg rolls with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa or sour cream, instead.

Conclusion

These Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls bring all the delicious flavors of Mexican street corn into a crispy, cheesy appetizer. Whether fried or air-fried, they’re the perfect treat for any party or casual gathering. With the zesty avocado-lime sauce, they’re guaranteed to be a hit and are easy to make ahead for convenience!

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