Sweet Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole is a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with a warm honey glaze, creating a soft and creamy texture that everyone loves. It’s simple, comforting, and has just the right amount of sweetness to complement any meal, especially during family dinners or holiday gatherings.
I really enjoy making this casserole because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in food form. The honey adds a gentle sweetness without being overpowering, and the corn gives it a lovely pop of texture. I like to prepare it ahead of time so the flavors have time to meld, and it always turns out deliciously moist and full of flavor.
When serving, I usually pair this casserole with roasted meats or a fresh green salad for a nice balance. It’s a crowd-pleaser and always disappears quickly from the table, which says a lot! Plus, it’s easy to customize—sometimes I sprinkle a bit of cheese or add a touch of spice to mix things up. It’s a warm, tasty dish that I love sharing with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Using both whole kernel and cream-style corn gives the casserole texture and creaminess. If you only have one type, it still works but try to add a little milk or cream to keep it moist.
Cornmeal & Flour: Cornmeal adds a nice grainy texture, while flour helps bind everything together. For a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Honey: This is the sweetness star here. You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a different kind of natural sweetener.
Sour Cream: It adds richness and moisture. Greek yogurt works well if you want a tangy twist and lower fat content.
Butter: Melted butter gives the casserole a rich flavor. For a dairy-free version, use melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
How Do You Get the Casserole’s Perfect Golden Crust?
Getting a golden, slightly crisp top while keeping the inside soft is all about baking time and temperature. Here’s what I do:
- Preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Use a metal or glass baking dish to help the edges brown nicely.
- Bake at 350°F and check around 45 minutes — the surface should be golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool for 10-15 minutes after baking to let it set, making it easier to cut and serve.
These tips help you achieve that beautiful golden crust without drying out the casserole, just like in the photo.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – I recommend this size because it helps the casserole cook evenly and makes serving simple.
- Mixing bowls – one large for combining ingredients, and a small one for whisking the wet mixture; easy to clean and handle.
- Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements ensure the best texture and flavor.
- Whisk – it’s perfect for blending the wet ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula or spoon – helps spread the batter evenly into the dish and mix ingredients gently.
- Oven – obviously essential for baking until golden and tender.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a cheesy twist that melts into every bite.
- Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for a subtle kick of heat.
- Herbs: Mix in chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Protein: Fold in cooked bacon crumbles or bits of cooked rotisserie chicken to make it heartier.
Sweet Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup honey
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus 45-50 minutes baking time. Allow 10-15 minutes to slightly cool before serving so the casserole can set and be easy to cut. Total time is roughly 1 hour and 10-15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready to Bake:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, stir together the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, sour cream, eggs, and honey until smooth and fully mixed.
4. Blend Wet and Dry:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until everything is combined—don’t overmix, so your casserole stays tender.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula or spoon.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden brown. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Take the casserole out and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs on top if you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the casserole and serve warm. Enjoy the sweet, creamy, honey-glazed flavors with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and drain the frozen corn before using. This helps prevent excess moisture that can make the casserole soggy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free sour cream or coconut yogurt to keep it creamy without dairy.
