Crunchy, golden, and utterly addictive, Homemade Maize Puffs are a delightful snack that's simple to make and packed with flavor. Perfectly combining the earthy taste of maize flour with the buttery richness of the dough, these oven-baked puffs boast a crisp exterior and a light, airy center. Enhanced with optional seasonings like paprika for a smoky kick or cheese powder for a tangy twist, these versatile bites cater to both savory and cheesy cravings. Quick to prepare with just a handful of pantry staples, they’re ideal for casual snacking, party platters, or kid-friendly treats. Plus, they’re baked—not fried—making them a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. Serve these maize puffs fresh from the oven or store them to enjoy their crunch anytime! Perfect keywords: homemade maize puffs, baked corn snacks, cheesy maize bites, healthy snack recipe, crispy puffed treats.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil and add salt and butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add maize flour to the pan, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon to prevent lumps.
Allow the mixture to thicken, cooking it on low heat for about 5 minutes until it forms a smooth, non-sticky dough-like consistency.
Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
Add baking powder and optionally paprika and cheese powder to the cooled maize mixture. Mix well.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Transfer the cooled maize dough to a piping bag with a large round nozzle or use a ziplock bag with a corner cut off.
Pipe small, meringue-sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each for expansion.
Using a brush, lightly coat each mound with olive oil to help them crisp up.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the maize puffs are lightly golden and crispy.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the maize puffs to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Calories |
1606 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 76.7 g | 98% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.6 g | 148% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 126 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 3246 mg | 141% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 204.6 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.3 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.5 g | ||
| Protein | 20.7 g | 41% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 115 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 439 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.