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–+ servings
Ella Cooks

Air Fryer Honey-Butter Corn Ribs (Sweet Heat, Sticky & Addictive)

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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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 190
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

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)

Equipment

  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board (non-slip recommended)
  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Silicone brush or spoon
  • Tongs

Method
 

Season the corn
  1. Toss corn ribs with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Air fry
  1. Arrange in a single layer (some overlap is okay).
  2. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking or tossing once halfway.
  3. They should curl, lightly blister, and brown at the edges.
Make the glaze
  1. While the corn cooks, stir together melted butter, honey, chili flakes, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
  2. Glaze while hot
  3. Transfer hot corn ribs to a bowl and immediately toss with the honey-butter glaze until glossy and sticky.
Finish & serve
  1. Sprinkle with cotija and cilantro. Serve hot — ideally with napkins.

Nutrition

Calories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSugar: 11g

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.

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