The kind of snack people eat standing over the counter
These are one of those “I’ll just test one” foods that turn into half the tray disappearing immediately.
They’re sweet, salty, buttery, a little spicy — and because they’re eaten like ribs, people cannot stop picking at them. Perfect party food, game-day snack, or “I made this once and now everyone expects it” situation.
And yes: the air fryer is the secret.
Why this tastes so good
This recipe works because it layers flavor after crisping:
- High heat first → dries the corn slightly so it curls and crisps
- Honey-butter glaze after → sticks instead of burning
- Chili + lime → cuts the sweetness so it’s addictive, not cloying
- Cotija finish → salty, crumbly contrast that clings to the glaze
The result: glossy, sticky, finger-licking corn ribs that don’t taste boiled or bland.
Equipment you’ll need
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board (non-slip recommended)
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone brush or spoon
- Tongs
Corn ribs are tough to cut — a sharp knife and steady pressure matter.
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn, husks removed
- 1½ tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Honey-butter glaze
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Zest + juice of ½ lime
- Pinch of salt
To finish
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
Servings & timing
- Serves: 4 as a snack / appetizer
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10–12 minutes
- Total time: ~20 minutes
How to cut corn ribs (important)
- Stand the corn upright on a cutting board.
- Cut straight down through the center (this takes pressure — go slow).
- Cut each half in half again to make quarters.
- If ears are very thick, cut into sixths instead.
Uneven ribs are fine — they curl differently and look more natural.
How to make air fryer corn ribs
- Season the corn
Toss corn ribs with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. - Air fry
Arrange in a single layer (some overlap is okay).
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking or tossing once halfway.
They should curl, lightly blister, and brown at the edges. - Make the glaze
While the corn cooks, stir together melted butter, honey, chili flakes, lime zest, lime juice, and salt. - Glaze while hot
Transfer hot corn ribs to a bowl and immediately toss with the honey-butter glaze until glossy and sticky. - Finish & serve
Sprinkle with cotija and cilantro. Serve hot — ideally with napkins.
Optional flavor swaps
- Hot honey: replace honey + chili flakes with hot honey
- Smoky: add smoked paprika or chipotle powder
- Mexican street corn vibes: add mayo + extra lime + chili powder
- Vegan: use plant-based butter or olive oil + maple syrup
Estimated nutrition (per serving)
(Approximate, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~190
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Sugar: 11 g
- Protein: 4 g
❓ FAQs
Why didn’t my corn ribs curl?
They need high heat and enough space. Overcrowding or lower temps prevents curling.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh. If needed, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes.
Can I use frozen corn?
No — frozen corn won’t rib or curl properly.
Are corn ribs spicy?
Mild as written. Adjust chili flakes to taste.
What should I serve with them?
They’re great alongside burgers, sliders, tacos, or as part of a party snack spread.
Air Fryer Honey-Butter Corn Ribs (Sweet Heat, Sticky & Addictive)
Love it? Click to rate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toss corn ribs with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange in a single layer (some overlap is okay).
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking or tossing once halfway.
- They should curl, lightly blister, and brown at the edges.
- While the corn cooks, stir together melted butter, honey, chili flakes, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
- Glaze while hot
- Transfer hot corn ribs to a bowl and immediately toss with the honey-butter glaze until glossy and sticky.
- Sprinkle with cotija and cilantro. Serve hot — ideally with napkins.
Nutrition
Notes
Optional flavor swaps
- Hot honey: replace honey + chili flakes with hot honey
- Smoky: add smoked paprika or chipotle powder
- Mexican street corn vibes: add mayo + extra lime + chili powder
- Vegan: use plant-based butter or olive oil + maple syrup
FAQs
Why didn’t my corn ribs curl?They need high heat and enough space. Overcrowding or lower temps prevents curling. Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh. If needed, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes. Can I use frozen corn?
No — frozen corn won’t rib or curl properly. Are corn ribs spicy?
This version is mild. Adjust chili flakes to taste. What should I serve with them?
They’re great alongside burgers, sliders, tacos, or as part of a party snack spread.
