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.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn Base

4 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)

Wet Ingredients

1 cup whole milk
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs, room temperature

Dry Ingredients

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy variation)
Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
1 diced jalapeño (for a spicy twist)

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (about 1 cup)
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 220 mg
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: Southern corn pudding, comfort food, creamy corn side dish, holiday side dish, Southern cuisine, corn custard, baked corn pudding