Easy Elote en Vaso: Mexican Street Corn Cup Recipe

Corn in a Cup (Elote en Vaso) – A Classic Mexican Elote Appetizer

This elote en vaso recipe brings the flavors of Mexican street corn right to your kitchen with tender corn kernels, creamy crema, tangy lime, and crumbled cotija cheese.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 10 servings
• Rating:
  
  4.7/5 (29 reviews)
  

Ingredients for Authentic Elote en Vaso

• 10 ears corn, shucked and kernels removed
• 1 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or Tajín seasoning)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Corn Kernels: Place the shucked kernels in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until tender, about 2–3 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return corn to the pan over low heat to evaporate any excess moisture.
2. Season with Crema and Lime: Transfer the hot corn to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the Mexican crema and lime juice, then stir until each kernel is coated. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper; adjust to your taste.
3. Layer Your Cups: In small serving cups (about 8–10 ounces), start with a scoop of seasoned corn, then sprinkle a layer of crumbled cotija. Repeat so you have 2–3 layers per cup.
4. Garnish and Serve: Top each cup with a final sprinkle of cotija, a dash of chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for the creamiest, most flavorful elote en vaso.

Tips for the Best Street Corn in a Cup

• Serve Warm: Corn cools quickly; serve right away for the creamiest texture.
• Spice Levels: Adjust chili powder and cayenne for mild to fiery heat.
• Cheese Swap: Use feta if cotija isn’t available, but crumble it finely.
• Make-Ahead: Cook kernels and mix with crema up to 2 hours ahead; store in the fridge and layer just before serving.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 564 kcal
• Carbs: 26 g | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 6 g
• Fat: 52 g (Sat Fat: 32 g)
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 160 mg
• Sodium: 406 mg

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food—this elote is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any gathering where you want to impress with minimal fuss. Enjoy your homemade elote!

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