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This comforting corn casserole has always been my go-to for potlucks and Sunday dinners when I want something easy yet always the first to disappear. The touch of honey brings out the natural sweetness of corn and gives the top a beautiful golden glaze that everyone loves.
I remember making this for a family picnic where the kids licked their plates clean and asked for seconds. It has since become my signature dish for extended family get-togethers.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Whole Kernel Corn: Fresh or high-quality frozen corn gives the best juicy crunch
- Honey: Use pure honey for the sweetest glaze and a subtle floral aroma
- Cream Style Corn: Adds a creamy texture without needing cream cheese or heavy cream
- Melted Butter: Choose good quality real butter for a rich flavor
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything for the perfect sliceable casserole
- Cornmeal: Stone-ground cornmeal offers structure and a bit of rustic texture
- Baking Powder: This ensures the casserole puffs up light and fluffy
- Salt: Balances the natural sweetness of honey and corn
How to Make It
- Prep the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat a medium casserole dish generously with butter so you get a crisp caramelized edge all the way around.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Beat eggs until smooth and lemony in a large bowl. Whisk in honey and melted butter making sure the butter is only warm not hot so it does not scramble the eggs.
- Add Corn and Cream:
- Fold in both the whole kernel corn and cream style corn. Stir gently so you do not mash the kernels. The whole kernels are what create that irresistible bite.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together cornmeal baking powder and salt. Use a fine mesh sieve to sift the mixture for the fluffiest result.
- Bring it All Together:
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet bowl using a silicone spatula. Stop as soon as you see no more dry cornmeal streaks so you do not overmix.
- Transfer and Smooth:
- Pour the batter into your prepared dish. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to nudge it evenly into the corners for uniform baking and that perfect golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the dish on the center rack. Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean. The top should be burnished gold and edges slightly crisp.
- Finish With Honey Glaze:
- While still hot drizzle a spoonful of extra honey across the top. Let it rest for ten minutes before slicing to allow everything to settle and the glaze to soak in.
I am always amazed by how the honey caramelizes into the crevices of the baked corn creating these sweet chewy bites. The first time my niece bit into the golden edge she said it tasted like sunshine and that memory sticks with me every time I make it.
Flavor Boosters
Cool the casserole completely before refrigerating to maintain the fluffy texture. Store in an airtight container and enjoy within three days. Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil to restore that crisp top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm straight from the oven with a drizzle of extra honey and a sprinkle of chopped chives for color. It pairs beautifully as a brunch side with crispy bacon or as part of a holiday buffet spread. For extra flair try a dollop of sour cream.
Creative Twists
If you are out of honey try warm maple syrup for a woodsy twist. You can swap some or all of the butter for a neutral oil but the richness will be different. Go gluten free by choosing a cornmeal that is labeled certified gluten free.
This corn casserole is always the most requested side at my gatherings. Drizzle a little honey each time you rewarm it for an irresistible finish.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I achieve a crispy top on the corn casserole?
Bake uncovered for the last several minutes, allowing the top to brown and become crisp.
- → Can I use fresh or frozen corn?
Both fresh and frozen corn work well. Thaw frozen corn first for best texture.
- → What size baking dish is best?
A standard 8x8 or similar sized casserole dish provides even cooking and golden edges.
- → Is it suitable for making ahead?
Yes, assemble ahead and bake just before serving for fresh flavor and texture.
- → Can I adjust the honey sweetness?
Absolutely. Add more or less honey to match your taste for sweetness or balance.