Deliciously Creamy Cornbread Pudding Recipe Made Easy

Cornbread pudding is a comforting and flavorful dish that seamlessly combines the rich, buttery taste of cornbread with a creamy, pudding-like texture. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday meals, a unique addition to your regular dinner rotation, or a delightful standalone treat. This dish takes the classic cornbread and elevates it with a smooth custard that adds a touch of sweetness and richness. Whether served warm or at room temperature, cornbread pudding is sure to be a hit at your table. In this guide, we will explore how to make cornbread pudding from scratch, including all the essential ingredients, steps, and tips to ensure you achieve the perfect pudding every time.

Ingredients for Cornbread Pudding

To make cornbread pudding, gather the following ingredients:

• 6 cups crumbled cornbread: Homemade or store-bought cornbread works well. If you’re using store-bought, try to get a slightly dry version for better texture.
• 4 large eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the pudding and giving it a rich, custardy texture.
• 2 cups milk: Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but you can use 2% or even a dairy-free alternative if needed.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds extra richness and creaminess to the pudding.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the savory cornbread.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of spice that complements the cornbread flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, warm spice that enriches the pudding.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• ¼ cup melted butter: Adds richness and helps to create a slightly crispy top layer.
• 1 cup canned cream-style corn: Contributes additional moisture and a touch of sweetness.
• Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts: For added texture and a nutty flavor, though this is optional.

How to Make Cornbread Pudding

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the pudding from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cornbread
   If you haven’t already, crumble the cornbread into bite-sized pieces. You want the pieces to be relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This mixture will serve as the custard base for the pudding.
4. Combine Cornbread and Custard Mixture
   Add the crumbled cornbread to the wet ingredients and gently stir to combine. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes so that the cornbread can soak up the custard.
5. Add the Cream-Style Corn
   Stir in the cream-style corn, which will add extra moisture and a slight sweetness to the pudding. If using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish
   Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the mixture, which will help create a golden, slightly crispy top.
7. Bake the Pudding
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and Serve
   Allow the cornbread pudding to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

About the Main Ingredients

• Cornbread: The base of the pudding. Using slightly dry cornbread helps it absorb the custard better and gives the pudding a nice texture. If your cornbread is fresh, consider letting it sit out for a day or toasting it lightly.
• Eggs: Essential for creating the custard-like texture of the pudding. They help bind the ingredients together and provide richness.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: These dairy products contribute to the creaminess of the pudding. Heavy cream adds a richer texture, but you can adjust the amounts depending on your preference and dietary needs.
• Sugar: Balances the savory flavor of the cornbread and adds sweetness to the pudding. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
• Vanilla Extract, Cinnamon, and Nutmeg: These flavorings enhance the overall taste of the pudding, adding depth and warmth.
• Cream-Style Corn: Adds moisture and a slight sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the pudding.
• Nuts (Optional): Pecans or walnuts provide additional texture and a nutty flavor, which can complement the pudding’s sweetness.

This cornbread pudding recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your recipe collection, offering a delicious twist on classic cornbread and a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy your homemade cornbread pudding!