Prepare the wings by cutting the wing tip from each wing segment, discarding the wing tip. Following the natural joint of the wing, cut through the skin and the joint separating the drum portion from the wing, making 18 drums and 18 wings. Pat wings dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a large cast iron pan or Dutch oven, heat 1 ½-2 inches of oil over medium-high heat to 350 degrees. Pre heat oven to warm, about 200 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a wire rack.
While the oil heats, in a large bowl whisk together the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss wings in cornstarch mixture to lightly coat.
In a large bowl, add the melted butter, hot sauce, and brown sugar, whisking until thoroughly combined.
Fry wings in batches of 7 or 8, turning 3-4 times until cooked through. Fry the drums for 10-11 minutes, wings for 8-9. Remove wings from the hot oil, place on prepared cookie sheet, keep wings in warm oven while frying the remaining batches.
When finished frying, toss wings in prepared sauce until coated. Serve warm.
Notes
See the post for more information, photos and tips.