Korean corn dogs look like a high-margin item, but cheese portions and coating drift can turn them into a loss leader.
This guide shows you how to lock portions and price each dog based on real cost math.
Quick Summary
- Corn dog cost = sausage + cheese + batter + coating + oil + packaging
- Standardize batter weight and coating grams
- Price cheese-only and premium fillings as upgrades
- Re-cost when cheese or oil prices move
Core Cost Formula
Corn dog cost = Sausage + Cheese + Batter + Coating + Oil + Packaging
Food cost % = Corn dog cost ÷ Menu price × 100
Portion Standards That Matter
- Batter weight per dog (grams)
- Cheese grams per dog
- Potato coating grams per dog
- Frying oil absorption per batch
- Sauce portion (ml)
Example Portion Cost (US)
Example numbers for planning. Replace with your invoice costs.
| Component | Portion | Example cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sausage | 1 piece | $0.45 |
| Cheese (mozzarella) | 2 oz | $0.65 |
| Batter | 90g | $0.35 |
| Potato coating | 50g | $0.40 |
| Frying oil | per dog | $0.20 |
| Packaging | 1 set | $0.35 |
| Total | $2.55 |
Targeting 30% food cost:
Target price = $2.55 ÷ 0.30 = $8.50
Oil and Coating Control
- Track oil change timing and absorption
- Use a scoop for coating to keep grams consistent
- Separate costs for sugar, cereal, or crunchy coatings
Delivery Considerations
- Keep sauce separate to avoid soggy coating
- Price delivery higher if packaging costs add up
- Limit free add-ons during delivery promos
Quick Checklist
- Batter weight standardized
- Cheese grams fixed per size
- Coating measured by scoop
- Oil absorption tracked
- Monthly cost updates scheduled
Do This Now
- Standardize all portion sizes in grams or ounces
- Calculate food cost for your top 5 menu items
- Set up a weekly price check for key ingredients
- Document your current yield percentages
- Create a pricing review calendar for the next 12 months
Related Guides
- Recipe Costing Guide
- Food Cost Ratio Guide
- Loss Rate Guide
- US Hot Dog Cart Cost Guide
- Fried Chicken Restaurant Cost Guide
Want This Automated?
KitchenCost tracks ingredient prices, yields, and portion standards so corn dog costs stay accurate.
Start on the KitchenCost landing page.