The Best Homemade Corn Pudding Recipe (Creamy, Classic & Easy)
If you’re searching for a perfect corn pudding recipe that delivers rich creaminess, sweet corn flavor, and a golden, custard-like finish, you’ve just found your new go-to dish. Corn pudding is a timeless comfort food enjoyed across generations—especially during Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, and warm family dinners.
This dish sits deliciously between savory and sweet, offering a silky texture similar to a soufflé but with the heartiness of a casserole. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the best corn pudding recipe, plus expert tips, variations, storage instructions, and serving ideas.
⭐ What Is Corn Pudding?
Corn pudding is a classic American comfort dish made from corn, milk or cream, eggs, sugar, butter, and thickening ingredients. The mixture bakes into a custard-like casserole that is both creamy and slightly firm. It’s not too sweet and not too savory—making it the perfect side dish for nearly any meal.
Unlike cornbread, corn pudding stays moist and luscious. It has whole kernels of corn for texture and a smooth base that melts in your mouth.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Corn Pudding Recipe
Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Ultra creamy texture – soft, silky, and perfectly set
- Balanced sweetness – not overly sugary
- Uses simple ingredients – mostly pantry staples
- A foolproof recipe – perfect results even for beginners
- Great for holidays and everyday meals
- Easy to customize with cheese, spices, or added ingredients
Whether you’re cooking for a family feast or want a comforting side for weeknight dinner, this corn pudding recipe is sure to impress.
🥣 Classic Corn Pudding Recipe
Yield: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Here is everything you need for this perfect corn pudding recipe:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer texture)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra sweetness & aroma)
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for Corn Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Melt the butter on low heat. Allow it to cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the eggs in the mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- eggs
- milk
- melted butter
- sugar
Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in:
- flour
- baking powder
- salt
- black pepper
Whisk everything until the mixture becomes lump-free.
Step 5: Add the Corn
Fold in:
- whole kernel corn
- creamed corn
Combine until the mixture is evenly blended.
Step 6: Pour & Bake
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until:
- the edges are golden brown
- the center is set but still slightly soft
- a knife inserted into the center comes out clean
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
🍽️ How to Serve Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is incredibly versatile. It shines as a side dish for:
- Thanksgiving turkey
- Roast chicken
- BBQ ribs or brisket
- Fried chicken
- Grilled meats
- Holiday ham
- Hearty soups and stews
Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra color and freshness.
⭐ Tips for Making the Perfect Corn Pudding Recipe
Here’s how to ensure your corn pudding turns out creamy and delicious every single time:
✔ Use room-temperature eggs
They blend better and help the pudding set properly.
✔ Don’t over-bake
Overbaking can dry out the pudding. Remove it as soon as the center is just set.
✔ Want a sweeter pudding?
Add an extra 2–4 tablespoons of sugar.
✔ Want it more savory?
Reduce or skip the sugar and add cheese or spices.
✔ Use whole milk or half-and-half
Low-fat milk can make the pudding less creamy.
🧀 Corn Pudding Recipe Variations
One of the reasons this corn pudding recipe is so beloved is because it’s easy to customize. Try one of these tasty variations:
1. Cheesy Corn Pudding
Add:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- ½ cup mozzarella or pepper jack
This makes the pudding richer and more savory.
2. Spicy Corn Pudding
Mix in:
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 diced jalapeño
- A pinch of chili flakes
Perfect for those who love heat!
3. Southern-Style Corn Pudding
Add:
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- 2 extra tablespoons sugar
Creates a sweeter, holiday-style version.
4. Bacon Corn Pudding
Fold in:
- ½ cup crispy, chopped bacon
Adds a smoky, savory touch that pairs amazingly with corn.
5. Herb & Garlic Corn Pudding
Mix in:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives
Great for serving with roasted meats.
🥡 How to Store Corn Pudding
Refrigerator
Place in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Corn pudding can be frozen for 2–3 months.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
- Oven: 300°F for 10–12 minutes
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes
For best results, add a small splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.
🎉 Frequently Asked Questions
Is corn pudding the same as corn casserole?
Not exactly. Corn casserole often uses cornbread mix, making it thicker. Corn pudding is creamier and more custard-like.
Can I make corn pudding ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh the next day.
Can I use fresh or frozen corn?
Absolutely!
- Fresh corn: use 2 cups
- Frozen corn: thaw first
You’ll still need a can of creamed corn for texture.
🧡 Final Thoughts: The Best Corn Pudding Recipe
Whether you are planning a holiday dinner or simply want a comforting side dish, this classic corn pudding recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It is creamy, flavorful, easy to prepare, and customizable. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, velvety dish that brings comfort with every bite.
If you’ve never made corn pudding before, this is the perfect recipe to start with. And if you’re already a corn pudding lover, this version might just become your new favorite.
