Set out a large mixing bowl. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
Stir in the half-and-half, eggs, and melted shortening. Mix until smooth. Then fold in the corn kernels, mixing until well combined.
Cover the batter and place in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Once the batter is well chilled, place a large pot over medium heat. Attach a cooking thermometer to the side of the pot and fill with 2 inches of frying oil. Set a plate near the stovetop and line it with paper towels.
Once the oil reaches 370°F, take the batter out of the refrigerator. Use a spoon (or cookie scoop) to portion out 2 tablespoon dollops of batter. Working in small batches, gently drop them in the hot oil. The temperature will drop to around 350°F. Adjust the burner as needed to keep the temperature around 350.
Fry the corn nuggets for approximately 3 to 5 minutes. They should be gold into dark gold on the outside. Use a skimmer or slotted spoon to move them to the holding plate. Cut one open to make sure it is tender, but fully cooked on the inside. Adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed and continue frying in small batches.
Serve the corn nuggets warm as is, or with dipping sauce on the side.
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Notes
Dip Ideas: Comeback Sauce, Remoulade, Marinara, Ranch DressingThe fritters taste best fresh and hot. But you can keep them in the fridge for up to a day or so. I recommend that you briefly reheat in the air fryer if you've got one.