Sweet Corn Spoon bread is a creamy, comforting Southern dish that’s a cross between cornbread and soufflé. It’s light, fluffy, and pairs perfectly with holiday dinners or any hearty meal. Let’s create this cozy recipe step-by-step!
And then enjoy your Sweet Corn Spoon bread—it’s sure to be a hit!
Why is it called spoon bread?
Spoon bread gets its name because of its unique, soft texture that makes it easy to serve with a spoon rather than slicing like traditional cornbread. Unlike typical cornbread, spoon bread has a more pudding-like consistency, similar to a soufflé or custard, which requires scooping rather than cutting.
This softer texture is due to the inclusion of ingredients like milk, eggs, and sometimes creamed corn or sour cream, which give it a fluffy, moist consistency that sets it apart from its denser cousin, cornbread.
Historically, spoon bread has Southern roots, with influences from Native American corn-based dishes, and it has become a staple comfort food in Southern cuisine for its warm, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor.
Sweet Corn Spoon Bread Recipe
Sweet Corn Spoon Bread Recipe Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup canned sweet corn, drained
- 1 cup creamed corn
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions to prepare Sweet Corn Spoon Bread
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (8×8 or a small casserole dish) with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Cornmeal Mix: In a large bowl, combine cornmeal and milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in the melted butter, sugar, sweet corn, creamed corn, sour cream, beaten eggs, baking powder, and salt until everything is well incorporated.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the spoonbread is lightly golden on top and set in the center.
- Serve Warm: Spoon out servings while warm. Enjoy the rich, sweet, and savory flavors!
Health Benefits of Sweet Corn Spoon Bread
- Rich in Fiber
Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and supports heart health. Adding cornmeal and whole corn to the dish boosts the fiber content, making it more filling. - Source of Essential Nutrients
Corn provides essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C, potassium, and magnesium. These support vision health, immune function, and blood pressure regulation. - Contains Antioxidants
Yellow corn contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health and can help protect against age-related macular degeneration. - Protein Boost from Eggs and Dairy
The addition of eggs and dairy (such as milk and sour cream) increases the protein content of spoonbread, supporting muscle maintenance and helping to keep you full.
Calorie Content in Sweet Corn Spoon Bread
- Calories: ~200–250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25–30g (mainly from corn and cornmeal)
- Protein: 5–6g
- Fat: 10–12g (from butter, eggs, and dairy)
Note: Values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Cautions for Sweet Corn Spoon Bread
- High in Carbohydrates
This dish is relatively high in carbs, mainly from cornmeal and corn. If you are following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, consider enjoying smaller portions or substituting some ingredients with lower-carb options. - Potential for High Caloric Intake
With rich ingredients like butter and sour cream, Sweet Corn Spoonbread can be calorie-dense. To keep portions balanced, pair it with lean proteins or lighter side dishes. - Allergen Considerations
This recipe includes common allergens such as dairy and eggs. Those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies can try substituting with lactose-free or plant-based dairy options, though texture and flavor may vary slightly. - Sodium Levels
Adding too much salt or using canned corn with added sodium can increase the dish’s sodium content. Opt for low-sodium ingredients and adjust salt to taste to keep sodium levels in check.
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