Name: A Comforting Southern Classic Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern United States
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed); 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy variation); Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish; 1 diced jalapeño (for a spicy twist)

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Southern Corn Pudding is truly A Comforting Southern Classic that brings a warm, creamy embrace to your table. With its velvety texture and a beautiful balance of sweet and savory notes, this dish has stood the test of time in Southern kitchens everywhere. It’s the perfect side that carries nostalgic memories while still feeling fresh and exciting, perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or whenever you need a hug from food. The magical combination of simple ingredients creates a rich, custard-like dish that pairs wonderfully with so many main courses, making it an all-star recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A Comforting Southern Classic Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that unmistakable golden color that makes Southern Corn Pudding so irresistible. This recipe is easy to pull together but still brings layers of richness and comfort that everyone will rave about.

Fresh Corn Kernels: Choose fresh if possible for sweetness and texture, though frozen works in a pinch.
Whole Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to create a smooth custard base.
Sour Cream: Brings a slight tang and velvety texture to balance the sweetness of the corn.
Eggs: The magic binders that give the pudding lightness and structure.
Unsalted Butter: Provides buttery depth and allows you to control the salt level perfectly.
Granulated Sugar: Enhances natural sweetness without overpowering the dish.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the custard for that perfect pudding consistency.
Baking Powder: Ensures a light, airy texture by giving the pudding a gentle rise.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors to life without distraction.
Optional Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, savory twist for those who love deeper flavors.

How to Make A Comforting Southern Classic

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a vital step to ensure your Southern Corn Pudding bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden crust. Select a 9×13-inch baking dish or individual ramekins if you want to get fancy with portion sizes. Butter your dish well to prevent sticking and add an inviting richness right from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend together whole milk, smooth sour cream, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until silky. Slowly whisk in room temperature eggs one at a time for maximum fluffiness and smoothness. This mixture will form the luscious, creamy heart of your pudding and smell absolutely heavenly as the dairy and sugar combine.

Step 3: Blend Corn and Dry Ingredients

Next, gently fold fresh corn kernels into the mixture. For the best texture, pulse them lightly in a food processor beforehand so you get a wonderful blend of creamy custard and chunks of sweet corn. Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper, then add to your wet ingredients. Stir just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the pudding light and tender.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You are looking for the edges to turn a beautiful golden brown and the center to still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the dish — this means the pudding will be delectably moist and creamy. A toothpick inserted should come out nearly clean, with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once baked, remove your corn pudding and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Resting allows the pudding to set up nicely, making it easier to slice and enhancing the beautiful flavors. This final step shows why it’s truly A Comforting Southern Classic that brings joy to every forkful.

How to Serve A Comforting Southern Classic

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like freshly chopped chives or parsley gives your corn pudding a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. A light sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper can add just a whisper of warmth and a gorgeous red hue, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Southern Corn Pudding shines alongside traditional Southern fare like crispy fried chicken, tender collard greens, or smoky barbecue ribs. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad, balancing the meal with sweetness and creamy depth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try making individual corn pudding ramekins topped with a bit of melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of green onion. You could also serve it in mini cast-iron skillets for rustic charm. Serving warm brings out the best flavors, so make sure to keep it cozy until it’s time to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Southern Corn Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 4 days. Simply cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out and keep those flavors locked in.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, Southern Corn Pudding freezes wonderfully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months and will thaw beautifully without losing the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your pudding gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture, or microwave in short increments, stirring gently between times. Warm it thoroughly until just heated through — be careful not to overcook, which could dry out the pudding. Reheating brings back that irresistible comfort and custardy charm.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes, canned corn can be used but fresh or frozen corn is preferred for better texture and natural sweetness. If using canned corn, drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can affect the pudding’s consistency.

Is Southern Corn Pudding gluten-free?

The traditional recipe includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free without sacrificing much texture or flavor.

Can I add cheese to the pudding?

Absolutely! Adding shredded cheddar cheese is a popular twist that enhances the savory aspect of this dish. Mix it right into the batter or sprinkle on top before baking for a melty, delicious finish.

How do I know when the pudding is done baking?

Look for golden edges and a set center with a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can dry it out, so keep a close eye near the end of baking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. Use a dairy-free butter alternative. Keep in mind texture and flavor will vary slightly but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about making and sharing A Comforting Southern Classic like Southern Corn Pudding. It’s a dish that carries the spirit of Southern hospitality straight to your table and invites you to savor every creamy, sweet, and savory bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers pure comfort and timeless flavor that feels like a hug on a plate. Give it a try — your kitchen and your loved ones will thank you!

A Comforting Southern Classic Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 11 reviews

Author: Harper
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Southern Corn Pudding is a comforting and creamy classic Southern side dish that features the natural sweetness of fresh corn kernels combined with rich dairy, eggs, and a hint of sugar. Often served alongside roasted meats, fried chicken, or collard greens, this custard-like pudding offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a tender, fluffy texture. Its roots in Southern agricultural tradition and community gatherings make it a beloved recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or individual ramekins. This ensures even cooking and easy removal of the pudding once baked.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sour cream, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Then, gradually add the room temperature eggs one at a time, whisking continuously to incorporate them fully. This process creates a creamy and airy base essential for the pudding’s texture.
Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Slowly add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the pudding.
Add Corn and Optional Ingredients: Fold in the fresh corn kernels and, if using, the shredded cheddar cheese or diced jalapeño. Stir gently to combine while preserving some corn texture.
Blend to Desired Consistency: Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and pulse briefly to achieve a creamy consistency without pureeing completely. This step balances smoothness with some corn kernel texture which is characteristic of Southern Corn Pudding.
Bake the Pudding: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-55 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The center should have a slight gentle jiggle indicating moistness.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period solidifies the pudding and enhances the flavors, making it easier to slice and serve.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives or parsley for color and a fresh flavor boost. Serve warm as a comforting side dish paired with your favorite Southern main courses like fried chicken or barbecue.

Notes

Use fresh corn kernels when possible for the best sweetness and texture, but frozen corn is a good substitute if fresh is unavailable.
Ensure eggs are at room temperature before mixing to promote better incorporation and fluffiness.
Do not overmix batter after adding dry ingredients to avoid a dense pudding texture.
For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-free or vegan alternatives include using coconut or almond milk, and flaxseed or chia seed mixtures instead of eggs; expect a slight variation in texture.
Adding cheese or jalapeños can customize the pudding’s flavor to your preference.
Allowing the pudding to rest after baking helps it set and develop richer flavors.
Serve warm to enhance the creamy sweetness of the pudding.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern United States