When the first hints of autumn’s chill start to creep in, I’m suddenly reminded of those Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. The memory of her Southern Corn Pudding bubbling away in the oven brings a warmth to my heart that no store-bought meal could ever replicate. As the scent of sweet corn and butter envelopes the kitchen, I can almost hear my family gathering around the table, excitedly discussing the flavors of the day’s feast.
This creamy, custard-like dish not only showcases the essence of comfort food but offers endless customization options to cater to any palate. Whether you prefer it with a sprinkle of cheese for a rich twist or a touch of spice to kick things up a notch, this Southern Corn Pudding is bound to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect addition to any gathering—be it casual or festive. Join me as I guide you through creating this heartwarming dish that is sure to become a beloved staple in your own kitchen!
Why is Southern Corn Pudding a Must-Try?
Creamy Comfort: This dish delivers a wonderfully smooth texture that melts in your mouth, bringing nostalgia and joy to every bite.
Easy to Customize: Whether you want to add cheese for that cheesy delight or a spicy kick with jalapeños, this recipe adapts to your taste.
Minimal Effort: With straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up this delightful treat, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hit at any gathering—friends and family will be coming back for seconds!
Quick Prep: You can prepare it in under 15 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy your company instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
For more recipe inspiration, check out my guide on comfort food classics.
Southern Corn Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
- Sweet Corn (2 cups) – Fresh corn brings the sweetest flavor; canned corn is an easy substitute.
- Whole Milk (1 cup) – Whole milk adds creaminess; you can use low-fat or almond milk for a lighter version.
- Eggs (3 large) – Room temperature eggs create a fluffier texture; consider flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
- Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, melted) – Enhances flavor; feel free to use margarine or plant-based butter if needed.
- Sugar (1/4 cup) – Adjust to taste for sweetness; honey or maple syrup also works well as a substitute.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness of corn, making every bite delightful.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Helps to achieve that lovely fluffy texture in your Southern Corn Pudding.
For Variation Options
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Adds a rich, savory flavor for a cheesy twist.
- Chopped Jalapeños (to taste) – Bring a spicy kick to tantalize your taste buds!
- Fresh Herbs (like chives or thyme) – Incorporate these for a burst of freshness and added dimension.
How to Make Southern Corn Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the first step to ensure your pudding bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden top.
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Combine sweet corn, whole milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth, creating a delightful base for your Southern Corn Pudding.
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Beat in the eggs until fully blended. This is crucial for achieving the light, fluffy texture you want in your pudding—think of it as incorporating air for that lovely rise!
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Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to help ensure even baking.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on top. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean!
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Cool slightly before serving. This allows the pudding to firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for an appealing presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Southern Corn Pudding
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Butter Temp Matters: Ensure melted butter isn’t too hot when added to avoid cooking the eggs, which can ruin the texture.
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Egg Mixing: Mixing eggs thoroughly is key for achieving that fluffy rise in your Southern Corn Pudding—don’t skip this step!
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Creamy Upgrade: For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the mixture. Just this little tweak makes a big difference!
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Watch the Browning: If the top begins to brown too quickly while baking, cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes to ensure a perfect finish.
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Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with spices or herbs; adding jalapeños or fresh chives can elevate the flavor, making this dish uniquely yours.
Southern Corn Pudding Variations
Looking to add your personal touch to this already delightful Southern Corn Pudding? Let’s get creative!
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, savory twist. The gooey texture blends beautifully with the pudding’s creaminess.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a zesty heat. This spicy variation will warm up your taste buds and add excitement to every bite.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or thyme for a refreshing twist. This simple addition can brighten the overall flavor and bring a garden freshness to your dish.
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch. The combination of sweet corn and salty bacon creates a delicious contrast that is simply irresistible.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture. The nutty elements add not only crunch but also a delightful depth to the pudding’s flavor.
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Coconut Twist: Replace half the milk with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor. This variation transports your Southern Corn Pudding to a new culinary paradise with its rich, luscious taste.
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Sweet Maple Infusion: Swap out sugar for maple syrup for a unique maple flavor. This tweak offers a wonderful, unexpected sweetness that pairs beautifully with the corn’s natural flavors.
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Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter for a vegan-friendly version. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting essence of Southern Corn Pudding with dietary needs in mind.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Corn Pudding preparations are perfect for those hectic days when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without the rush! You can prepare the pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the sweet corn, milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, baking powder, and beaten eggs in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate. To prevent any browning or drying out, make sure it’s tightly sealed. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled mixture into a greased dish and bake it straight from the fridge, adjusting the baking time slightly if needed. This way, you’ll have a delicious, creamy comfort food dish ready with minimal effort, just as delightful as if made fresh!
Storage Tips for Southern Corn Pudding
Room Temperature: Southern Corn Pudding is best enjoyed warm; however, it can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours before being refrigerated.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Southern Corn Pudding in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Add a splash of milk for additional creaminess if desired.
What to Serve with Southern Corn Pudding?
The comforting warmth of Southern Corn Pudding is simply irresistible, so let’s turn it into a full meal experience.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky flavors complement the sweet creaminess of the pudding, balancing the dish perfectly.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds a delightful crunch and earthy flavors, enhancing the overall meal.
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Spicy Sausage: The heat from spicy sausage pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the corn pudding, creating an adventurous flavor dynamic.
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Garden Salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty dressing brightens the plate and adds a refreshing bite, making it a perfect counterpart.
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Homemade Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits are a classic Southern pairing that you can use to scoop up the creamy pudding; they add heartiness to the spread.
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Sweet Tea: Cool and refreshing, a glass of sweet tea serves as a nostalgic drink that ties wonderfully into Southern dinner traditions.
This meal spread not only satisfies but delights your senses, creating a delightful dining experience for family and friends!
Southern Corn Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for Southern Corn Pudding?
I recommend using fresh sweet corn for the best flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, canned corn is a convenient substitute. Just ensure it’s well-drained before mixing into the batter.
How should I store leftover Southern Corn Pudding?
Store any leftover Southern Corn Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it away to prevent any moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Southern Corn Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze Southern Corn Pudding, place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why is my Southern Corn Pudding not setting properly?
If your pudding isn’t setting, it may not have baked long enough, or the oven temperature might be too low. Make sure to insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done! Also, ensure you mixed the ingredients thoroughly to help it rise properly.
Is Southern Corn Pudding safe for people with allergies?
If you’re accommodating allergies, be aware that this recipe contains eggs and dairy. For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use almond or soy milk instead of whole milk. Just remember to double-check labels for any additional ingredients you might want to add!
How can I customize my Southern Corn Pudding?
The more the merrier in customization! You can add 1 cup of shredded cheese for a cheesy delight, or incorporate chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like chives or thyme can also enliven the dish with new flavor profiles. Get creative with what you love!
Southern Corn Pudding: A Creamy Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the first step to ensure your pudding bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden top.
- Combine sweet corn, whole milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth, creating a delightful base for your Southern Corn Pudding.
- Beat in the eggs until fully blended. This is crucial for achieving the light, fluffy texture you want in your pudding—think of it as incorporating air for that lovely rise!
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to help ensure even baking.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on top. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean!
- Cool slightly before serving. This allows the pudding to firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.