Name: Grandmother’s Corn Pudding: A Creamy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 large Eggs (Lightly whisked until well combined); 1/4 cup Melted Butter (Can substitute with oil for a dairy-free version); 1/4 cup Sugar (Consider reducing to 1 tablespoon for less sweetness); 1 cup Milk (Alternatives like almond milk work well); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Acts as a thickener; naturally gluten-free); 2 cups Whole-Kernel Corn (Fresh or frozen can be used); 1 cup Cream-Style Corn (Ensure it's well mixed with the whole-kernel corn)

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As I rummaged through my grandmother’s recipe box, a wave of nostalgia hit me—one card, yellowed with age, caught my eye: Grandmother’s Corn Pudding. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a comforting embrace that conjures memories of bustling family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. With its creamy, custard-like texture and a delightful sweetness from corn, this easy recipe stands as a testament to the comfort food I crave during cold nights. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for everyone at your table. Whether served alongside roasted chicken or as a surprise side dish for holiday ham, this cornbread delight offers versatility that’ll make your meal complete. Are you ready to revive a family classic and add your own flair to it? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Corn Pudding a Family Favorite?

Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite of this creamy masterpiece transports you back to grandma’s kitchen, where love and warmth are the secret ingredients.

Versatile Dish: Perfectly pairs with savory meats like roasted chicken or holiday ham, making it an ideal choice for any gathering.

Quick and Easy: With simple pantry staples, this gluten-free recipe can be whipped up in no time, saving you valuable minutes for more family fun.

Customizable Creations: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding cheese, spices, or even a touch of bacon for a unique twist!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive celebration, this dish is sure to be a showstopper and beloved by all. If you’re also looking for other family favorites, check out our Mexican Street Corn for a tasty side dish or our refreshing Enchanted Unicorn Lemonade for a fun drink!

Grandmother’s Corn Pudding Ingredients

For the Batter

Eggs – Provides structure and a custard-like texture; whisk lightly until well combined for a smoother finish.
Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with oil for a dairy-free version.
Sugar – Balances sweetness and enhances the corn flavor; consider reducing to 1 tablespoon for a less sweet delight.
Milk – Contributes creaminess; almond milk or other dairy alternatives work splendidly.
Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener for structure; this recipe is naturally gluten-free due to cornstarch.

For the Corn Mix

Whole-Kernel Corn – Provides texture and natural sweetness; 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn may be used as a substitute.
Cream-Style Corn – Enhances creaminess and corn flavor; ensure it’s well mixed with whole-kernel corn for the best consistency.

Embrace the heartwarming tradition of Grandmother’s Corn Pudding and watch as it fills your home with delightful aromas and cherished memories!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grandmother’s Corn Pudding

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your Grandmother’s Corn Pudding comes out smoothly after baking. Have your whisk and mixing bowls ready for the next steps!

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, crack and lightly whisk the eggs until they are well combined, about 1-2 minutes. You want a smooth mixture with slight fluffiness. This step is essential as the eggs will provide structure to the pudding and contribute to its creamy texture.

Step 3: Combine the Base Ingredients
Next, add in the melted butter, sugar, milk, and cornstarch to the eggs. Whisk these together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps, taking about 2-3 minutes. The melted butter should be incorporated well, creating a rich and velvety base for your corn pudding.

Step 4: Fold in the Corn
Gently fold in the drained whole-kernel corn and cream-style corn until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This should take about 1-2 minutes, and your mixture should have a delightful golden hue, showcasing the sweet corn pieces.

Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the corn mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove Grandmother’s Corn Pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows it to set slightly, making it easier to cut into squares if desired. Your family will love the creamy, custard-like texture paired with the golden crust!

Grandmother’s Corn Pudding Variations

Feel free to get creative with this beloved dish and give it your own twist!

Dairy-Free: Substitute melted butter with olive oil and use almond milk for a creamy dairy-free delight.
You won’t miss the dairy, as the corn’s natural sweetness shines through in every bite.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese before baking for added richness.
The gooey cheese will melt beautifully into the creamy texture, offering an unbeatable flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for an unexpected heat.
This addition wakes up the flavors and keeps everyone at the table guessing delightfully!
Bacon Bliss: Crumble crispy bacon into the batter for a savory, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.
It brings a satisfyingly crunchy texture that no one can resist, making it a hit at gatherings.
Herbs and Greens: Incorporate chopped green onions, fresh chives, or spinach for added color and freshness.
These vibrant additions will not only brighten up the dish but also add a new layer of flavor.
Thinner Texture: Use a larger baking dish to create a thinner corn pudding that bakes faster and slices easily.
Adjust the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the golden edges as they develop.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in a handful of crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an earthy crunch.
The nuts elevate the dish’s heartiness and provide a satisfying texture that contrasts with the creamy base.
Fruit Fusion: For a unique twist, consider adding diced jalapeños or sweet peppers to bring a sweet-and-spicy flavor.
These fruity pops add a refreshing surprise to each bite and make the dish even more delightful!

If you’re looking for more exciting flavors, consider pairing this dish with our delightful Mexican Street Corn or serving it alongside some zesty Enchanted Unicorn Lemonade for a complete meal experience!

What to Serve with Grandmother’s Corn Pudding

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy goodness of this cherished dish.

Roasted Chicken: This juicy, flavorful dish balances the sweetness of corn pudding perfectly, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
Grilled Pork Chops: The savory, smoky notes enhance the dish’s subtle sweetness, creating a savory-sweet symphony that delights every palate.

For a refreshing twist, consider a light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite more satisfying!

Green Bean Almondine: The crunchy almonds and tender beans add a beautiful contrast to the creamy corn pudding, both in texture and flavor.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweet glaze mirrors the sweetness of the corn pudding, crafting a lovely harmony on your plate.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of this tart sauce will elevate the flavors and add a festive touch, especially during the holidays.

To finish your meal, a slice of apple pie paired with vanilla ice cream will take you back to those cozy family dinners, making comfort food memories last a lifetime.

Make Ahead Options

These Grandmother’s Corn Pudding preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can whisk together the base of eggs, melted butter, sugar, milk, and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, simply cover it with plastic wrap to prevent moisture buildup. Additionally, you can fold in the whole-kernel and cream-style corn the night before, but wait to bake until you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to enjoy this comforting dish, preheat your oven and pour the mixture into the casserole dish, then bake for 1 hour. This way, you’ll have a heartfelt, homemade delight with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Grandmother’s Corn Pudding

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep the creamy texture intact. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for approximately 1 minute until heated through. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your Grandmother’s Corn Pudding once more!

Expert Tips for Grandmother’s Corn Pudding

Perfectly Whisked Eggs: Ensure you whisk the eggs gently but thoroughly; this helps to create a smoother texture in your Grandmother’s Corn Pudding.
Watch the Bake Time: If using fresh or frozen corn, check for doneness around the 50-minute mark, as these ingredients can alter baking time.
Dairy-Free Option: For a lighter, dairy-free pudding, substitute melted butter with your favorite oil and milk with almond milk—don’t skip the whisking!
Add Extra Flavor: Incorporate ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheese or spices like cayenne for a unique twist that elevates the classic flavor profile.
Make Ahead: Prepare your corn pudding mixture a day in advance. Refrigerate it overnight and bake it just before serving to save time during mealtime.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the pudding to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps stabilize its creamy texture, making for cleaner servings.

Grandmother’s Corn Pudding Recipe FAQs

What are the best ingredients for achieving the perfect texture in corn pudding?
Absolutely! For the ideal custard-like texture, ensure you whisk the eggs until they’re just combined but not whipped too much—about 1-2 minutes will do. The combination of melted butter for richness and cornstarch as a thickener is key. If you’re opting for milk, I often recommend using whole milk or even a dairy-free alternative like almond milk for added creaminess.

How should I store leftover corn pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s important to ensure the pudding is completely cooled before sealing it to maintain that delightful creamy texture. If you’re like me and don’t want to waste any deliciousness, this is the perfect way to enjoy it later!

Can I freeze Grandmother’s Corn Pudding?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! Wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my corn pudding doesn’t set properly?
Very! If your pudding is too runny, it might need additional baking time—check it at the 50-minute mark if you’re using fresh or frozen corn as these can alter the bake time. Next time, ensure you’re using enough cornstarch as a thickener. If it’s still undercooked, putting it back in the oven for an extra 10-15 minutes can help achieve that lovely golden crust!

Are there any dietary concerns to consider for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, thanks to cornstarch instead of flour. If you’re cooking for those with dairy allergies, feel free to substitute melted butter with oil and milk with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative. Always make sure to check labels when using canned ingredients to avoid any hidden gluten or allergens.

Is there a way to customize Grandmother’s Corn Pudding?
Oh, the more the merrier! You can easily elevate your corn pudding by mixing in shredded cheese (cheddar works wonders), adding spices like cayenne or even crumbled bacon for a savory kick. Just fold in your additions gently before baking, and you can create endless variations to suit your family’s taste!