Name: Delicious Mexican Street Corn Cups for Summer Gatherings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 ears Fresh Corn on the Cob (Use for optimal sweetness and texture.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a substitute.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Enhances the creamy consistency.); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh juice brightens flavors; lemon juice can substitute.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Adjust to match your preferred spice level.); 1 cup Queso Fresco (Provides a salty, crumbly topping.); 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (Optional; omit if not preferred.); 1/2 cup Extra Queso Fresco (Sprinkle on top for additional flavor.); 1 cut Lime Wedges (Serve alongside for drizzling.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Sprinkle to enhance appeal and taste.)

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The aroma of grilled corn wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched summer festival. There’s something undeniably special about enjoying Elote, or Mexican Street Corn, especially when it’s transformed into these delightful cups. My version not only captures that beloved street food essence but offers a customizable, mess-free treat your friends and family will adore. Perfect for barbecues or a cozy night in, these creamy Elote Cups bring a vibrant, zesty flavor to your table and can be whipped up in no time. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly, making them an easy crowd-pleaser! Curious about what makes these little delights so irresistible? Let’s dive into the recipe!

What Makes Mexican Street Corn Cups Irresistible?

Delightful Flavor: Every bite of these Elote Cups bursts with smoky sweetness and a creamy tang that captures the essence of summer.

Easy Preparation: With a straightforward grilling and mixing process, you’ll have these yummy cups ready in no time!

Customizable: Feel free to tailor the spice level or add your favorite toppings, ensuring everyone gets their perfect bite.

Party Perfect: Ideal for summertime gatherings—they’re fun, shareable, and sure to impress your guests!

Healthy Snack: Packed with the goodness of corn, these cups are not just tasty but also satisfyingly wholesome. Don’t forget to pair them with Cornbread Muffins Moist for an even more delightful spread!

Mexican Street Corn Cups Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for creating these flavorful delights!

For the Corn Cups

Fresh Corn on the Cob – Use 4 ears for optimal sweetness and texture.
Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt offers a tangy alternative.
Sour Cream – Enhances the creamy consistency of the mixture.
Lime Juice – Fresh juice brightens flavors; lemon juice can be a substitute.
Chili Powder – Key for adding warmth; adjust to match your preferred spice level.
Queso Fresco – Provides a salty, crumbly topping; cotija cheese works similarly.
Chopped Cilantro (optional) – Adds a burst of freshness; omit if cilantro isn’t your thing.

For Garnishing

Extra Queso Fresco – Sprinkle on top for that additional salty flavor.
Lime Wedges – Serve alongside for a zesty drizzle just before enjoying.
Chili Powder – A little extra sprinkle can enhance the visual appeal and taste!

Get ready to treat your family and friends to these vibrant and delicious Mexican Street Corn Cups!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Cups

Step 1: Prepare Corn
Start by shucking 4 ears of fresh corn and removing any silk strands. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which should be about 400°F (204°C). The corn should look lively with bright yellow kernels, indicating it’s ready for grilling. This preparation is key to achieving that deliciously smoky flavor we love in Mexican Street Corn Cups.

Step 2: Grill Corn
Place the prepared corn directly on your preheated grill. Grill the corn for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are charred and tender. You’ll know it’s done when you see char marks and the corn looks plump. Follow this step carefully as the char enhances the overall flavor of your Mexican Street Corn Cups.

Step 3: Make Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This mixture will act as the delicious binding agent for your Mexican Street Corn Cups, providing rich flavor and creaminess.

Step 4: Cut Corn Off Cobs
Once the corn is grilled, allow it to cool just enough to handle. Carefully cut the kernels off the cobs and transfer them into the large mixing bowl with the creamy mixture. Make sure to scrape any caramelized bits from the cob for added flavor. This step ensures that the grilled corn gets fully integrated into your creamy mixture for maximum taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add 1 cup of crumbled queso fresco and ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, if desired, to the bowl of corn and creamy mixture. Gently fold all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the corn is evenly coated. This blending is essential as it brings the vibrant flavors together, forming the essence of your Mexican Street Corn Cups.

Step 6: Serve
Finally, spoon your mixture into small cups for easy serving. Garnish each cup with additional crumbled queso fresco, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a spritz of fresh lime juice before enjoying. Aim to serve these tasty Mexican Street Corn Cups immediately to ensure they’re at their freshest and most flavorful!

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Cups

Grilling Perfection: Always grill your corn until it’s deeply charred. This enhances the smoky flavor that’s key in authentic Mexican Street Corn Cups.
Creamy Harmony: For an even creamier texture, blend sour cream with mayonnaise instead of using them separately. This creates a luscious mixture everyone will love!
Freshness Matters: Serve your Mexican Street Corn Cups immediately after preparation. They taste best when fresh, ensuring that creamy and crunchy balance is spot on!
Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your heat preference. Start with less, and add more later if desired to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Vegan Option: Make a delicious vegan version by swapping out mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and skipping the cheese or opting for dairy-free cheese.
Topping Ideas: Don’t be afraid to add toppings! Diced jalapeños, avocado, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese can elevate your Mexican Street Corn Cups to new heights of flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Cups

Fridge: Store leftover Mexican Street Corn Cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the mixture separate from the cups to maintain texture.

Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the corn mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, then serve in fresh cups.

Reheating: Microwave the corn mixture in short bursts until heated through, approximately 1-2 minutes. Avoid overheating to prevent loss of creaminess.

Assembly: For the best taste and texture, assemble the cups just before serving. This keeps the corn fresh and the flavors bright!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Street Corn Cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can grill the corn and prepare the creamy mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply shuck and grill the corn, then cut the kernels off and refrigerate them in an airtight container. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and salt, and store it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the corn with the creamy mixture and fold in the queso fresco and cilantro for a fresh taste. With this prep strategy, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack ready to go with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Cups

Each bite of these joyful Elote Cups pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance the experience.

Tortilla Chips: The crunchy texture provides a perfect contrast to the creamy cups, making them an ideal starter or side dish.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Light and flavorful, shrimp complements the sweet corn while adding a lovely seafood note to your meal.
Black Bean Salad: This zesty, hearty salad brings a fresh element to the table and balances the creaminess of the corn cups.
Avocado Salsa: Bright and creamy, this salsa not only adds a refreshing touch but also elevates the flavor palette of your gathering.
Margaritas: A tangy margarita can be the perfect drink partner, enriching your summer vibe with a splash of citrus.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light, refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate with its zesty sweetness, making it an enjoyable finale.
Fruit Skewers: Colorful and sweet, these can be a light side to complement the dish’s richness while introducing vibrant flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers add charred sweetness that pairs well with the smoky notes of the Elote Cups.
Cornbread: A warm, moist slice serves as a delightful accompaniment, blending well with the vibrant flavors of Mexican Street Corn Cups.

Mexican Street Corn Cups Variations

Feel free to make these delightful Mexican Street Corn Cups your own with these fun and tasty variations!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or switch to a spicier chili powder for a heat boost that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
Vegan Delight: Swap out mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and skip the cheese or go for dairy-free cheese for a totally vegan treat.
Extra Creaminess: For a richer texture, blend sour cream and mayonnaise together. Your mixture will be velvety smooth and oh-so-addictive!
Zesty Avocado: Top your cups with diced avocados for a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the corn’s sweetness.
Herbaceous Twist: Instead of cilantro, try adding diced green onions or fresh parsley for a different fresh flavor that’s equally vibrant.
Citrus Pop: Squeeze in the juice of an oranges instead of lime to impart a unique twist with a sweet, citrusy finish that complements the corn beautifully.
Fiesta Flair: Mix in crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture that adds a fun twist to your Elote Cups, perfect for snack time!
Salsa Upgrade: Serve your cups with a side of fresh salsa to combine flavors! Try pairing them with a delicious Shrimp Bowl Corn for a fun meal combo.

Your Mexican Street Corn Cups can easily become your family’s favorite, making each gathering more exciting and flavorful!

Mexican Street Corn Cups Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best corn for Elote Cups?
Absolutely! Look for fresh corn on the cob that is firm with bright yellow kernels. Avoid any ears with dark spots all over, as they indicate overripeness. For the most flavorful Elote Cups, aim for corn that feels heavy for its size and has green, moist husks.

What’s the best way to store leftover Mexican Street Corn Cups?
You can store leftover Mexican Street Corn Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, to maintain the best texture, I recommend keeping the creamy mixture separate from the corn cups until you’re ready to serve. This way, they won’t get soggy!

Can I freeze the corn mixture for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the corn mixture for up to 2 months. To do this, scoop the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. As a final step, spoon it into fresh cups for serving to keep everything nice and crisp!

What should I do if my corn is tough after grilling?
Very! If your grilled corn turns out tough, it might be due to overcooking. Ensure you’re grilling for just 10 to 15 minutes and turning frequently for even cooking. If you find tough corn kernels, you can try cutting them off the cob and simmering them in a bit of water for a few minutes to soften them before mixing them into your creamy mixture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Elote Cups?
Yes, there are alternatives! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, make your Elote Cups vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise and skipping the cheese or selecting a dairy-free option. Additionally, for those with allergies, always check the labels on your mayonnaise and cheese, as they can contain allergens.

Can I make the creamy mixture ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the creamy mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to combine it with the grilled corn right before serving to keep that delightful crunch and fresh flavor intact.