Description
Golden Corn Pudding is a warm, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth side dish perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings. With its soft custard-like texture, slightly crisp golden top, and rich sweet corn flavor, it is a comforting classic loved by generations. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory that everyone at the table will enjoy.
Introduction
Corn pudding, also known as corn casserole or baked corn pudding, is a smooth, custard-like dish made from sweet corn, milk, butter, eggs, and a binding starch. Unlike cornbread, it stays moist and tender with a caramelized golden top. This Southern-inspired dish has become a beloved comfort food across the United States, ideal for both festive occasions and everyday meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy and perfectly moist thanks to the balance of milk, butter, and eggs
Simple and beginner-friendly using accessible pantry ingredients
Naturally sweet with a hint of savory flavor
Crowd-pleasing classic for holidays or family dinners
Versatile—easy to make sweet, savory, spicy, or cheesy
One-bowl, one-dish recipe with no complicated steps
Ingredients
- 2 cups canned or fresh sweet corn kernels
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- ⅓ cup flour or cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for sweeter version)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, melted butter, and salt until smooth. Add flour or cornstarch and whisk again until fully combined with no lumps.
Step 2: Add the Corn
Fold in sweet corn kernels gently. For a smoother texture, blend half the corn before adding. For a chunkier pudding, leave all kernels whole.
Step 3: Pour into Baking Dish
Grease a medium-sized glass or ceramic baking dish and pour in the mixture. Fill about ¾ of the dish to allow space for the pudding to rise slightly.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 45–60 minutes. The top should be golden brown, edges firm, and center slightly soft. Bake longer for a firmer texture.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the pudding cool for 10 minutes before serving. This ensures it sets properly while remaining creamy and velvety.
Tips for the Perfect Texture
Eggs provide structure, ensuring custard-like consistency.
Butter adds richness and keeps the pudding moist.
Cornstarch or flour binds the mixture, preventing separation.
Baking at moderate heat ensures gentle cooking for a silky finish.
Delicious Variations
Sweet Dessert-Style: Add extra sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or coconut flakes.
Savory Cheesy: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella, chopped green onions, cracked black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, smoked paprika, chili flakes, or pepper jack cheese.
Extra-Creamy: Add ½ cup heavy cream or 2 tablespoons cream cheese mixed into the batter.
Cornbread Style: Add ½ cup cornbread mix, a teaspoon of honey, and a dash of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with roasted chicken, turkey, or duck
Pair with grilled or baked fish
Accompany BBQ ribs or beef brisket
Serve alongside mashed potatoes, gravy, and green salad
Add to holiday spreads with casseroles or stuffing
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10–15 minutes to maintain creamy texture
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn? Yes, thaw and drain before adding to the batter.
Can I make it ahead? Yes, prepare the mixture in advance and bake before serving.
Why is my pudding watery? Possible reasons: too much milk, insufficient baking time, or a dish that is too deep. Solution: bake longer, use a shallower dish, or add 1–2 tablespoons more starch.
Why did the top burn quickly? Cover loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Can I make it vegan? Substitute plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan butter.
Conclusion
This Golden Corn Pudding is creamy, comforting, and versatile, perfect for holidays, family dinners, or weeknight meals. Its rich sweet corn flavor, velvety texture, and golden top make it a crowd-pleaser every time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it delivers a classic dish that feels both homey and special.