Southern-Style Cornbread Pudding 🌽🍰

This Cornbread Pudding is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the heart of the South! It's creamy, slightly sweet, and has a lovely golden crust, making it a perfect side dish for any meal or a scrumptious dessert on its own. The addition of corn kernels adds a pop of sweetness and a fun texture. Pair it with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence! 🍯🍨

Ingredients

For the Cornbread Base

• 1 box of cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of melted butter

For the Pudding Mixture

• 1 cup of sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup of cream-style corn
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1 tsp of baking powder
• 1/2 tsp of salt

To Serve

• Honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Fresh berries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Cornbread Base: In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until just combined; it's okay if there are a few lumps.

   🥄 Avoid overmixing to keep the cornbread light and fluffy.

3. Mix the Pudding Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the sweet corn kernels, cream-style corn, sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

4. Combine: Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cornbread batter until just combined.

5. Bake: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Serve: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired, and top with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

   🍓 Fresh berries add a tart contrast that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cornbread pudding!

Variations

• Savory Twist: Add 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or pepper jack) and a handful of chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist! 🔥
• Herbed: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a sophisticated touch.
• Gluten-free: Substitute the cornbread mix with a gluten-free cornbread blend to ensure it’s suitable for everyone.
• Make it a Meal: Add cooked and crumbled sausage or diced bacon into the batter for a hearty dish that can stand on its own!

This Cornbread Pudding is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it warm for the best experience! Enjoy! 🌟