Recipe by Earth Balance®
A Sweet and Smoky Grilled Corn Experience That Turns Simple Summer Produce Into Pure Magic
When fresh corn hits the grill, something special happens. The kernels turn golden, the edges caramelize, and that natural sweetness deepens into a rich, roasty flavor that screams backyard summer joy. Add a spicy maple aioli on top and suddenly you have a side dish that tastes like a celebration all on its own.
This creamy cashew based aioli brings together garlic, lime, maple, nutritional yeast and hot sauce for a sauce that is tangy, sweet, smoky and spicy all at once. It melts beautifully into warm grilled corn, clinging to each kernel in the most irresistible way. It is indulgent without feeling heavy, deeply flavorful without overpowering the natural corn.
Serve this at your next cookout, potluck or patio dinner and watch how fast everyone reaches for seconds. The sweet corn pops, the spice kicks in gently and the maple lime notes bring everything together in one bright and unforgettable bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Layered flavor that blends sweet grilled corn with creamy, spicy maple aioli
- Simple ingredients with bold payoff for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings
- Easy grilling technique that prevents burning while building deep caramelized flavor
- Cashew based aioli that is naturally dairy free and endlessly spoon worthy
- A perfect side dish for BBQ spreads, tacos, grain bowls or picnic plates
Grilled Corn with Spicy Maple Aioli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A Creamy, Spicy Twist on Classic Grilled Corn
This smoky grilled corn gets finished with a silky cashew maple aioli that adds heat, sweetness and bright lime flavor for a perfect summer ready side dish.
Ingredients
Grilled Corn
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8 medium ears fresh sweet corn in husks
Spicy Maple Aioli
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3 quarter cup unsalted raw cashews soaked
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5 cloves garlic minced
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1 quarter cup water
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2 tablespoons Earth Balance Original Buttery Spread
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1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
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1 eighth teaspoon chili powder
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1 half teaspoon nutritional yeast seasoning
Instructions
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Preheat grill to medium heat. Place whole ears of corn in a large bowl of cool water for 10 to 20 minutes to reduce husk burning.
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Place unhusked corn directly on the hot grill. Cook 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway. The husks protect the kernels while they steam and soften.
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While corn cooks, blend the cashews, water, Earth Balance, maple syrup, lime juice, hot sauce, chili powder and nutritional yeast until creamy.
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Remove husks from corn and return bare ears to grill. Cook until all sides are deep golden brown and lightly charred.
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Remove from grill and drizzle generously with spicy maple aioli.
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Serve with lime wedges, red pepper flakes and fresh cilantro.
Notes
Sprinkle extra nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy finish.
Pair with grilled veggie skewers, plant based burgers or fresh summer salads.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or tajin to dial up the flavor even more.
Nutrition info is approximate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: Summer Inspired Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
- Calories: 185kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g






