Sweet Creamed Corn with Honey Butter is a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the richness of butter and cream. Enhanced with a touch of honey, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or as a unique addition to weeknight dinners. This creamed corn recipe highlights the flavor of fresh or frozen corn, making it a versatile option you can enjoy year-round. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish will quickly become a favorite, especially for those who love a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Garnished with fresh parsley, this creamed corn looks as good as it tastes!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn:
- If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cobs. Frozen corn works well too—just measure out 4 cups and let it thaw slightly if desired for faster cooking.
- Melt Butter and Honey:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the honey, stirring until well combined. The honey will dissolve into the butter, creating a smooth, sweet base.
- Add Corn to the Skillet:
- Add the corn kernels to the skillet, stirring well to coat them with the honey-butter mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the corn to become tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the Cream:
- Reduce the heat to low, and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture to ensure the corn is evenly coated in the cream. Simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
- Season to Taste:
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning.
- Serve Warm:
- Transfer the creamed corn to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness, if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx. ½ cup)
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen corn?
- Yes, canned corn can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain it thoroughly, and consider reducing the cooking time since canned corn is already cooked.
- Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
- If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even milk. However, heavy cream gives the dish its rich, creamy texture, so using lighter substitutes may make the dish slightly thinner.
- Can I make this dish vegan?
- Absolutely! Replace the butter with a plant-based butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also swap honey for agave syrup to keep it vegan-friendly.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if it needs to be loosened up.
- What if I want a spicier flavor?
- To add a kick, sprinkle in a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika, or even add finely diced jalapeño peppers to the skillet with the corn.
Tips for Making the Best Sweet Creamed Corn with Honey Butter
- Use Fresh Corn When Possible:
- Fresh corn is ideal for this recipe, as it offers a sweet, crisp bite that frozen or canned corn may lack. During corn season, this dish is a fantastic way to use up extra ears of corn.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste:
- The honey adds a touch of sweetness, but you can adjust it based on your preference. Start with a small amount, then taste and add more if desired.
- Simmer to Thicken the Cream:
- After adding the cream, allow the mixture to simmer gently. This will help thicken the cream and concentrate the flavors. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the cream to separate.
- Season Gradually:
- Since corn has a natural sweetness, taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. A little seasoning goes a long way in balancing out the flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness:
- Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of herbal brightness. Other fresh herbs, like chives or thyme, also pair nicely with the creamy, sweet flavors in this dish.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
- Freezing: Creamed corn can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, cool the corn completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Conclusion
Sweet Creamed Corn with Honey Butter is a simple yet delicious side dish that’s a real crowd-pleaser. With its rich, creamy base and the sweetness of honey, this dish takes corn to a whole new level. Perfect for holiday gatherings, summer barbecues, or as a cozy family side, this recipe’s balanced flavors will appeal to both kids and adults alike. The addition of green parsley or fresh herbs adds color, while the honey-butter sauce brings out the corn’s natural sweetness. Whether you’re a fan of traditional creamed corn or trying it for the first time, this honey-butter version is sure to impress.