We’ve always been huge fans of the 12 Bones Corn Pudding a Southern classic hailing from Asheville’s beloved smokehouse. This creamy side dish captures the essence of comfort food with its sweet corn kernels and rich savory flavors that elevate any meal.
Originating from hearty Southern traditions we’ve simplified the recipe while keeping its authentic charm. Join us as we share tips to recreate this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To bring our take on the 12 Bones Corn Pudding to life—a creamy Southern staple with rich, buttery flavors—we’ve compiled this list of key ingredients. We’ll order them as they typically appear in preparation, with notes on any necessary prep for optimal results.
Fresh Produce and Dairy
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 6 ears of corn, shucked and kernels cut off for the sweetest, most vibrant flavor)
- 1 cup whole milk (chilled to help bind the mixture smoothly)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for that signature velvety texture that defines this dish)
Pantry Staples
- 2 large eggs (beaten to incorporate air and ensure a light, fluffy pudding)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted, to add a rich, golden hue and depth of flavor)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (sifted, to thicken without clumping)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (to balance the savory notes with a touch of sweetness)
Seasonings and Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to help the pudding rise slightly for a tender consistency)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for enhancing the natural corn essence)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, to add a subtle kick that complements the Southern roots)
This selection ensures our 12 Bones Corn Pudding captures its comforting, homestyle appeal—ready to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps ahead.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our 12 Bones Corn Pudding to life with ease, we need a selection of essential tools that ensure precise preparation and perfect results. Having the right equipment on hand allows us to handle the ingredients—such as fresh corn kernels and eggs—effortlessly, transitioning smoothly from mixing to baking.
Here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll use:
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are crucial for accurately measuring ingredients like granulated sugar and whole milk, ensuring our pudding achieves its signature creamy texture.
- Large mixing bowl: We recommend a 4-quart bowl to combine ingredients such as eggs, heavy cream, and corn kernels without spills, promoting even mixing.
- Whisk: A medium-sized whisk helps us blend the batter smoothly, incorporating flour and baking powder to avoid lumps and create that rich, velvety consistency.
- Baking dish: Opt for a 9×13-inch casserole dish made of glass or ceramic; it provides even heat distribution for our pudding to bake to golden perfection.
- Rubber spatula: This tool is ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in delicate items like butter, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee our oven is at the precise 350°F needed for baking, this helps maintain the dish’s comforting, homestyle appeal.
- Cutting board and chef’s knife: If using fresh corn, these are necessary for shucking and cutting kernels, making prep straightforward and safe.
| Tool | Primary Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring cups and spoons | Accurate measurement of ingredients | Use stainless steel for durability |
| Large mixing bowl | Combining and mixing batter | Glass or stainless steel preferred |
| Whisk | Blending to avoid lumps | Silicone-coated for easy cleaning |
| Baking dish | Even baking of the pudding | Non-stick coating recommended |
| Rubber spatula | Scraping and folding | Heat-resistant up to 500°F |
| Oven thermometer | Verifying oven temperature | Digital for precise readings |
| Cutting board and knife | Preparing fresh corn | Bamboo board for sustainability |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our creamy, flavorful 12 Bones Corn Pudding. Follow these precise instructions to achieve that irresistible Southern comfort with its rich, buttery aroma and velvety texture.
Prepare Ingredients
Before mixing, let’s prepare our ingredients for optimal freshness and accuracy. Start by shucking and cutting the corn to ensure every kernel releases its sweet juices.
- Fresh corn kernels: Shuck 4 ears of corn and use a sharp chef’s knife on a cutting board to remove about 4 cups of kernels. Dice any larger pieces for even distribution, capturing the vibrant sweetness that forms the heart of our 12 Bones Corn Pudding.
- Eggs and dairy: Crack 3 large eggs into a small bowl and whisk lightly to break the yolks, then measure out 1 cup of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream—ensure they are at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Sift these together to avoid lumps and enhance the light, airy quality.
- Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it cool slightly, so it integrates seamlessly without cooking the eggs prematurely.
Mix the Batter
With ingredients prepped, we now blend them into a smooth batter that captures the essence of this Southern classic—picture the 12 Bones Corn Pudding‘s luxurious creaminess as the flavors meld together.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the whisked eggs, melted butter, milk, and heavy cream. Use a whisk to blend until fully incorporated, creating a rich base that promises a silky finish.
- Gradually stir in the fresh corn kernels, folding them gently with a rubber spatula to maintain their texture and distribute the sweet, juicy bursts evenly.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until the batter is smooth and lump-free. At this stage, you’ll notice the batter thickening slightly, hinting at the pudding‘s comforting, homestyle appeal that makes it a crowd favorite.
Bake the Pudding
Finally, we bake our batter to golden perfection, transforming it into a warm, aromatic dish with a crispy top and tender interior that evokes the traditions of Asheville’s smokehouse.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with additional unsalted butter for a non-stick surface that enhances the 12 Bones Corn Pudding‘s rich flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula. Bake on the middle rack for 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- To check for doneness, monitor the internal temperature with an oven thermometer—it should reach 160°F for safety while ensuring the pudding sets to a moist, creamy consistency with subtle caramelized edges that release an irresistible, buttery scent. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Make-Ahead and Storage
One of the joys of our 12 Bones Corn Pudding is its flexibility for busy schedules, allowing you to prepare it in advance without sacrificing that creamy, golden-brown allure. We guide you through simple, effective strategies to make ahead and store this Southern favorite, ensuring it remains irresistibly comforting when you’re ready to serve.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline your meal prep, we suggest preparing the 12 Bones Corn Pudding batter or the fully baked dish ahead of time. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the Batter in Advance: Whisk together the wet and dry ingredients as outlined in the preparation section, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours to let the flavors meld, preserving the dish’s rich, buttery essence.
- Assemble and Bake Later: If you prefer, pour the batter into your greased baking dish and cover it with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to avoid uneven cooking, then proceed with baking as directed for that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.
- Fully Bake Ahead: Bake the pudding completely, then cool it on a wire rack for 30 minutes. This method works well for events, as the pudding can be made up to 2 days in advance. Its velvety texture holds up beautifully, making it easy to reheat without losing the sweet, corn-kissed aroma.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the 12 Bones Corn Pudding‘s signature creaminess and flavor. We outline the best practices below, including a quick reference table for timelines.
- Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the pudding moist and flavorful. Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
- Freezing for Longer-Term Storage: For extended preservation, wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months to lock in its hearty, homestyle appeal. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and warm in the oven at 325°F for 20-25 minutes to restore that irresistible, golden crust.
To help you track storage durations effectively, here’s a simple overview:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Best for short-term; reheat gently to maintain creaminess. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Ideal for longer storage; thaw slowly to avoid texture changes. |
By following these tips, your 12 Bones Corn Pudding will stay as delightful as the day you made it, ready to enhance any gathering with its comforting, soul-satisfying taste.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this take on the 12 Bones Corn Pudding recipe, a dish that brings genuine Southern warmth to our kitchens. It’s more than just a side—it’s a simple way to create memorable meals that feel comforting and true to tradition. We’re confident you’ll enjoy tweaking it to suit your gatherings, making it a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Let’s keep savoring these timeless flavors together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 12 Bones Corn Pudding?
12 Bones Corn Pudding is a classic Southern side dish from Asheville’s smokehouse, known for its creamy texture and rich, comforting flavors rooted in tradition. It’s a simple, homestyle recipe that combines fresh corn with creamy ingredients for a delicious addition to any meal.
What are the key ingredients for 12 Bones Corn Pudding?
The main ingredients include fresh corn kernels, whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. These are selected to create a creamy, flavorful pudding that captures Southern comfort.
What tools are needed to make 12 Bones Corn Pudding?
You’ll need measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a large mixing bowl, a whisk for blending, a baking dish, a rubber spatula, an oven thermometer, and a cutting board with a chef’s knife for prepping corn. These ensure precise preparation and great results.
How do I prepare 12 Bones Corn Pudding?
Start by shucking and cutting fresh corn, then whisk eggs and combine dry ingredients to make a smooth batter. Mix everything well, pour into a greased baking dish, and bake at the preheated oven temperature until golden brown. Check for doneness with an internal thermometer and let it rest before serving.
Can I make 12 Bones Corn Pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, or bake the full dish and store it. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy fresh-tasting pudding with minimal last-minute effort.
How should I store 12 Bones Corn Pudding?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months to maintain creaminess. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring it’s warmed through without drying out for the best flavor.