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How To Make Cornbread Pudding

9 min read Oct 18, 2024
How To Make Cornbread Pudding

How to Make Cornbread Pudding: A Deliciously Simple Guide

Cornbread pudding is a classic Southern comfort food that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This dish takes the humble cornbread and elevates it to a new level of richness and indulgence, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special holiday gathering. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to create a mouthwatering cornbread pudding that will leave everyone wanting more.

Choosing Your Cornbread

The foundation of any great cornbread pudding is the cornbread itself. While you can use store-bought cornbread, for the most authentic flavor, consider making your own.

Homemade Cornbread

  • Ingredients:

    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
    • 1 large egg

  • Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
    2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
    4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don't overmix.
    5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    6. Let the cornbread cool completely before using.

Store-Bought Cornbread

If you're short on time, you can use store-bought cornbread. Opt for a dense, moist cornbread that will hold up well in the pudding. Choose a plain cornbread without any added flavors, as you'll be adding your own flavorings to the pudding.

The Art of Assembling the Pudding

Once you have your cornbread ready, it's time to assemble the pudding. This is where the real magic happens, as you layer the cornbread with a creamy, flavorful custard.

Ingredients:

  • Custard:

    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Optional: 1/4 cup melted butter

  • Other:

    • 4 cups cubed cornbread
    • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, or 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the custard: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. If desired, stir in the melted butter.
  2. Assemble the pudding: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the cubed cornbread with the custard, alternating between the two. You can use all of the cornbread or save some for topping.
  3. Add optional toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or dried cranberries over the top of the pudding. A light dusting of brown sugar can also add a nice touch.
  4. Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the custard is golden brown.
  5. Rest: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cornbread Pudding

  • Don't overmix: Overmixing the batter will result in a tough cornbread. Gently combine the ingredients just until they're moist.
  • Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs create a smoother, richer custard.
  • Don't overbake: Overbaked cornbread will be dry. Watch closely and remove the pudding from the oven when it's set and the custard is lightly browned.
  • Cool slightly before serving: Allowing the pudding to cool slightly will help it set and make it easier to slice.
  • Serve warm: Cornbread pudding is best served warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Cornbread pudding is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

  • Chocolate Chip Cornbread Pudding: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the cornbread batter before baking.
  • Pumpkin Spice Cornbread Pudding: Add 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the custard.
  • Apple Cinnamon Cornbread Pudding: Add 1/2 cup chopped apples and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to the custard.
  • Buttermilk Cornbread Pudding: Replace the milk and cream in the custard with 2 cups buttermilk.

Enjoying Your Cornbread Pudding

Cornbread pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of year. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting and satisfying treat.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Cornbread Pudding

Making cornbread pudding is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a delicious and comforting dish from simple ingredients. By following this guide, you can confidently create a perfect cornbread pudding that will impress your friends and family. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you with a taste of Southern comfort food at its finest. Remember, how to make cornbread pudding is an art, but with practice and passion, you can master this classic dish and share its deliciousness with everyone around you.

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