Mexican Corn in a Cup – Bold and Flavorful Street Food Snack

If you’ve ever walked through a lively street market in Mexico, you’ve likely been drawn in by the irresistible smell of smoky grilled corn and zesty toppings. That unforgettable flavor comes from Mexican Corn in a Cup, also known as Esquites. This dish captures everything you love about Mexican street food—bold seasoning, creamy texture, and a burst of citrus—all served in a convenient, portable cup.

Whether you’re preparing a quick snack, a side dish for your favorite Mexican meal, or planning a backyard party, this corn in a cup recipe brings the flavor and fun. It’s fast, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Best of all, it delivers the same mouthwatering experience as grilled corn on the cob, but with none of the mess.

Save

What is Mexican Corn in a Cup?

Mexican Corn in a Cup is a popular street snack made from corn kernels that are sautéed or grilled, then mixed with creamy, tangy, and spicy toppings. While it shares the same delicious profile as elote (Mexican street corn served on the cob), this version is served off the cob in cups, making it easier to eat and perfect for sharing.

Known as esquites in Mexico, this dish combines fresh sweet corn with mayonnaise, sour cream or crema, chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese. The result is a savory, smoky, creamy, and citrusy snack that hits every note.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Mexican corn in a cup recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to make. You can have it ready in about 15 to 20 minutes. It’s also full of flavor and easy to customize. Whether you like your food spicy, tangy, cheesy, or mild, this dish adjusts to your tastes effortlessly.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Kids love it, adults crave it, and it works well as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course when paired with other Mexican street food snacks. In addition, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegetarian or vegan with a few simple swaps.

Everything You Need to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn Cups

To get started, gather the following simple and accessible ingredients:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Extra lime wedges and chili powder for garnish

These ingredients are flexible, so feel free to make substitutions based on what you have in your kitchen. For example, if cotija cheese isn’t available, feta or parmesan work well. If you prefer less creaminess, reduce the mayo or sour cream.

How to Make Mexican Corn in a Cup at Home (Esquites Style)

Step 1: Sauté the corn
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and golden brown.

Step 2: Combine with creamy ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Fold in cheese and herbs
Add crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Mix well, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve and garnish
Spoon the mixture into individual cups. Garnish with more cheese, cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a lime wedge. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Save

Secrets to Smoky, Creamy, and Irresistible Street Corn

To make your Mexican corn cups as authentic and flavorful as possible, follow these tips:

• Use high heat to get a nice char on the corn.
• Always use fresh lime juice for a bright citrus flavor.
• Don’t overdo the mayo or sour cream—the goal is a creamy coat, not a soup.
• Hand-crumble the cheese for better texture.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving to find your perfect balance.

These little tricks make a big difference in flavor and presentation.

Customizing Your Corn in a Cup for Every Craving

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ways to change it up:

• Add heat with hot sauce, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper.
• Add sweetness with a sprinkle of sugar or sweet paprika.
• Add protein with black beans, grilled chicken, or tofu.
• Make it a salad by adding diced tomatoes, cucumber, or red onion.
• Make it vegan by using plant-based mayo, sour cream, and cheese.

With so many variations, you’ll never get bored of this delicious street corn recipe.

What to Avoid When Making Street Corn at Home

Even a simple recipe can go wrong. Watch out for these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the corn until it becomes mushy.
• Using bottled lime juice, which lacks fresh flavor.
• Adding too much chili powder without tasting first.
• Skipping the char—it’s key for flavor depth.
• Overmixing the toppings, which can make the dish overly wet.

Avoiding these will keep your corn cups flavorful, balanced, and delicious.

How to Serve and Style Corn in a Cup Like a Pro

Presentation can elevate this humble dish. For casual events, use small disposable cups and plastic spoons. For more formal occasions, try serving in clear glass jars or ramekins with metal tasting spoons.

Garnish with a lime wedge, extra cheese, and a dusting of chili powder. Want a fun twist? Sprinkle on some Tajín or top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

Delicious Pairings for Mexican Street Corn Cups

This dish works wonderfully as a snack or side. Pair it with:

• Tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas
• Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or shrimp
• Bean and rice bowls
• Fresh fruit salads or pico de gallo
• Sparkling water with lime or a refreshing agua fresca

These combinations make it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even potlucks and parties.

Essential Equipment for Making Mexican Street Food Snacks

You won’t need much, but the right tools help make things easier:

• Large skillet or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
• Serving cups or ramekins
• Small spoons or forks

With these tools on hand, you can whip up this dish anytime with ease.

Best Practices for Saving and Reusing Mexican Corn Cups

Leftover Tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm.
• Add fresh cilantro, lime, and cheese before serving to refresh the flavor.
• Do not freeze, as the dairy components may separate and change texture.

Make-ahead tip: Prepare the corn ahead and store separately from creamy ingredients. Mix everything together just before serving.

Save

Mexican Corn in a Cup FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen corn?
Yes! Just make sure to drain canned corn and thaw frozen corn before sautéing.

What cheese can I use instead of cotija?
Feta is the closest match. Parmesan works too for a saltier twist.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How spicy is this recipe?
That’s up to you! Adjust chili powder or add hot sauce to suit your taste.

Can I make this in advance?
Yes. Cook the corn and prep the toppings in advance. Mix just before serving.

Conclusion

Mexican Corn in a Cup brings the flavor and fun of street food right into your kitchen. It’s bold, creamy, tangy, and totally customizable. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack, a backyard BBQ, or a full dinner spread, this recipe will impress every time.

Try it out today and share it with friends and family. If you love flavorful, easy-to-make recipes like this one, don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more global favorites made simple!

Print