Nutty Puppies
Nutty Puppies are crispy, savory bites with a rich peanut and bacon flavor, perfect for snacking or entertaining guests who enjoy bold, flavorful appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
- Divide the mixture into 36 one-ounce portions and roll into balls.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 450°F (232°C).
- Fry the rolls in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider adding a bit of cornmeal to the frying oil. If you don't have Spanish peanuts, any unsalted variety will work as a substitute. To make it a bit spicier, leave some seeds in the jalapeno peppers. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying to avoid greasy puppies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Nutty Puppies as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair well with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or as part of a spread with Country Breakfast Fixings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty Puppies contains roughly 161 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of cream-style corn?
Using frozen corn is possible, but it will change the texture of the puppies. You can blend the frozen corn with a little milk to achieve a creamier consistency similar to cream-style corn. This will maintain the intended flavor while providing some moisture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will mimic the acidity and moisture of buttermilk in the recipe.
How can I make these puppies ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and form the balls ahead of time. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).