Name: Sweet Corn Pudding: Decadent 15-Min Prep Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained; 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional); Fresh thyme leaves or chopped chives, for garnish (optional)

Sweet corn pudding has been a staple in my family for generations, bringing a comforting warmth and irresistible sweetness to our table. I remember my grandmother making this dish every Thanksgiving, the aroma of buttery corn and a hint of nutmeg filling her cozy kitchen. It’s truly the quintessential comfort food, a delightful blend of sweet and savory that makes any meal feel special. If you’ve ever wondered what is corn pudding, it’s this incredibly creamy, custard-like bake that’s so much more than just corn. This homemade corn pudding is surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Corn Pudding

This recipe for sweet corn pudding is an absolute winner for so many reasons. It hits all the right notes for a perfect side dish!

Incredible Flavor: It boasts a delightful sweet and buttery corn taste with a wonderfully creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, this easy corn pudding is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute side.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting, slightly sweet dish, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Budget-Friendly: It uses simple pantry staples, proving that delicious comfort food doesn’t have to be expensive.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual barbecue, this creamy corn pudding complements a wide range of meals.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients on hand, making it super convenient to whip up anytime.
Comfort Food Bliss: It’s pure, unadulterated comfort in every bite, evoking cozy feelings and happy memories.

Ingredients for Homemade Corn Pudding

Gathering the right corn pudding ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. You’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh corn for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. These simple items combine to make a truly special side dish.

1 (15 oz) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained – This provides those lovely bursts of sweet corn flavor and a bit of chewy texture.
1 (15 oz) can creamed corn – The creamed corn is key to achieving that signature velvety, custard-like consistency.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Butter adds richness and a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the corn beautifully.
1 cup sour cream – Sour cream contributes tanginess and extra moisture, ensuring a tender and creamy result.
2 large eggs – Eggs act as a binder, helping the pudding set and giving it a custardy structure.
1/4 cup granulated sugar – Just a touch of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Flour helps thicken the pudding slightly, giving it body.
1/4 cup yellow cornmeal – Cornmeal adds a subtle texture and a classic corn flavor to the mix.
1 teaspoon baking powder – This leavening agent helps the pudding rise just a bit, preventing it from being too dense.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Salt balances the sweetness and brings out all the other flavors.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) – A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic complexity that many love.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional) – For a hint of savory depth, onion powder works wonders without adding onion pieces.

How to Make Sweet Corn Pudding

Learning how to make sweet corn pudding is incredibly simple, and the result is a wonderfully comforting side dish. This baked corn pudding comes together quickly, making it a perfect addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Follow these easy steps for a delicious, creamy corn pudding your family will adore.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for achieving a perfectly golden and set corn pudding. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a medium casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup sour cream, and 2 large eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy base of our pudding.
Step 3: Stir in the 1 (15 oz) can drained whole kernel sweet corn and the 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn until they are evenly distributed throughout the wet ingredients. You’ll start to see those delightful corn kernels peeking through!
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. This ensures the leavening and seasonings are evenly dispersed.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; a few small lumps are perfectly fine and will help maintain that desirable tender texture.
Step 6: Pour the sweet corn pudding batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring a level surface for baking.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the center is just set, with only a slight jiggle when you gently shake the dish. This slight jiggle is key to a moist center.
Step 8: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let the corn pudding rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped chives if you like for a fresh, vibrant finish to this wonderful sweet corn recipe.

Sweet Corn Pudding: Decadent 15-Min Prep Comfort - Creamy texture of sweet corn pudding

Pro Tips for the Best Corn Pudding

Want to elevate your corn pudding from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. For more insights on perfecting recipes, you can explore our latest recipes.

Use a mix of corn: Combining whole kernel and creamed corn is crucial for both texture and that signature creamy base.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour and cornmeal, leading to a tougher pudding. Stir until just combined.
Allow it to rest: Letting the pudding sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set up further, ensuring a perfectly sliceable, creamy texture.
Fresh herbs add brightness: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or chives right before serving cuts through the richness and adds a lovely aroma.

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Corn Pudding?

The secret to a truly perfect, creamy corn pudding lies in the balance of ingredients and not overbaking. Using both whole kernel and creamed corn is key, along with ensuring the center has a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. Understanding the science behind baking can help achieve these results; for instance, the role of eggs in baking is crucial for structure.

Can I make Sweet Corn Pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can prepare this homemade corn pudding up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble the batter and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. For more information on food preparation and storage, consult resources like the FoodSafety.gov guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Corn Pudding?

The biggest mistake is overbaking, which makes it dry. Aim for that slight jiggle in the center. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; this can result in a dense, gummy texture.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Corn Pudding

This versatile corn pudding side dish shines alongside a variety of meals. Its creamy, slightly sweet profile makes it a fantastic accompaniment to hearty main courses. Imagine serving it as part of a traditional Southern feast, perhaps alongside slow-cooked pulled pork or fried chicken. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a holiday favorite. For a lighter meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad and some grilled fish. The comforting sweetness of the pudding balances richer flavors beautifully.

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Corn Pudding

Wondering about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious dish? Here are the approximate values per serving of our sweet corn pudding. This classic comfort food is surprisingly balanced, offering a good source of energy and some essential nutrients. For more details on general nutrition, you can visit our about page which touches on healthy eating.

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 15 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg
Sodium: 350 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Corn Pudding

Properly storing and reheating your delicious corn pudding ensures you can enjoy those leftovers just as much as the fresh bake. If you find yourself with extra homemade corn pudding, don’t worry! It keeps beautifully. For information on our data handling, please see our GDPR policy.

First, let the corn pudding cool completely at room temperature. This is crucial to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Once cooled, transfer the pudding to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you won’t get to your leftovers within that time, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen corn pudding will last for about 3 months.

To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. For larger amounts, you can reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain that lovely texture for your leftover corn pudding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Corn Pudding

What is corn pudding?

What is corn pudding? It’s a delightful, creamy, custard-like baked dish made primarily from corn kernels, creamed corn, and a binder like eggs and flour. It’s often a bit sweeter than a typical savory casserole, making it a beloved side dish, especially in Southern cuisine. Think of it as a heartwarming embrace in food form.

Why is corn pudding popular?

Why is corn pudding popular? It’s incredibly popular because it’s pure comfort food! The combination of sweet corn, creamy texture, and a slightly buttery, rich flavor is irresistible. It’s also quite easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of main dishes, making it a go-to for holidays and family meals.

Can I make a savory corn pudding recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe leans sweet, you can easily create a savory corn pudding. Reduce the sugar to just a tablespoon or omit it entirely. Adding ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper will transform it into a delicious savory corn pudding side dish.

What’s the best way to serve corn pudding?

This corn pudding side dish is incredibly versatile. It’s a classic accompaniment to barbecue, fried chicken, or roasted meats like pork or turkey. It also works beautifully as part of a holiday spread alongside other traditional favorites. Don’t be afraid to serve it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness!

Variations of Corn Pudding You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll love exploring different ways to enjoy this comforting dish. Here are a few delicious variations to inspire your next bake:

Savory Corn Pudding: For a delightful departure from the sweet version, try a savory corn pudding recipe. Simply omit the granulated sugar and add about 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a finely diced jalapeño, or some crumbled cooked bacon to the batter. This makes a fantastic side for chili or grilled meats.
Spicy Corn Pudding: Add a kick by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of chopped pickled jalapeños into the batter. This variation is wonderful alongside barbecue or Tex-Mex dishes.
Corn Pudding Casserole with Cornbread Topping: For added texture, prepare your favorite cornbread mix and pour it over the corn pudding batter in the baking dish. Bake as directed until both layers are golden and set. It’s a delightful fusion!
Gluten-Free Corn Pudding: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensuring your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.