25+ Delicious Southern Sweet Spoon Bread Recipes to Try Today

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Spoon bread is a beloved Southern classic, a dish that straddles the line between cornbread and pudding with its irresistibly soft, custardy texture.

While it may not be as well-known as other Southern staples, it has a special place on dinner tables across the South and is celebrated for its comforting warmth and versatility.

The sweet variety of spoon bread takes it a step further, adding delightful flavors such as honey, caramel, and spices that transform it into a perfect complement to savory dishes or even a stand-alone dessert.

In this roundup of 25+ Southern sweet spoon bread recipes, you’ll find an array of creative takes on this beloved dish.

From classic buttermilk spoon bread to decadent chocolate chip variations, each recipe offers its unique spin while preserving the creamy texture and sweetness that make Southern spoon bread so delightful.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a family brunch, or simply seeking a cozy side dish, these spoon bread recipes will bring a taste of Southern charm to your table.

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25+ Delicious Southern Sweet Spoon Bread Recipes to Try Today

Southern sweet spoon bread is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with a rich flavor profile, making it versatile enough for any meal.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting side to accompany a savory entrée or a unique dessert option that will impress your guests, there’s a sweet spoon bread recipe in this collection to suit every occasion.

From fresh flavors like lemon blueberry and apple cinnamon to rich caramel and chocolate chip variations, these recipes capture the essence of Southern cooking with a sweet twist.

As you explore these recipes, you’ll find that spoon bread is more than just a side dish; it’s an invitation to experience the warmth and hospitality of Southern cuisine.

Try one or several of these spoon bread recipes, and you’ll be embracing a piece of Southern tradition that’s sure to bring comfort and joy to every table.

Classic Southern Sweet Spoon Bread

This Classic Southern Sweet Spoon Bread captures the essence of traditional Southern cooking. This light and fluffy dish has a creamy, custard-like center and just the right amount of sweetness. With its unique texture, spoon bread isn’t quite a bread or pudding but has a spoon able consistency that makes it perfect as a side dish for a family dinner or a holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the butter, sugar, and salt until combined. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and the beaten eggs until the mixture is smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm, scooping out portions with a spoon.

This classic sweet spoon bread makes a wonderful addition to any meal, bringing warmth and Southern comfort to the table. The subtle sweetness pairs well with savory dishes, balancing out bold flavors with its creamy, tender texture.

Honey-Butter Southern Sweet Spoon Bread

This Honey-Butter Southern Sweet Spoon Bread adds a touch of golden honey and a rich buttery flavor for a slightly more decadent version of traditional spoon bread. Ideal for fall gatherings or holiday dinners, this version is both slightly sweeter and a bit richer than classic spoon bread, while still retaining the airy, spoonable texture that everyone loves.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus more for greasing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Heat the milk in a large saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal until the mixture starts to thicken, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the honey, melted butter, and salt until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
4. Add in the baking powder and beaten eggs, stirring until smooth and combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
6. Serve warm with an extra drizzle of honey, if desired.

The honey-butter addition in this recipe takes traditional spoon bread to a new level, adding sweetness and richness that complement each bite. Its soft, comforting texture and honeyed flavor make it an irresistible side dish, perfect for impressing guests at holiday gatherings.

Sweet Corn and Maple Spoon Bread

This Sweet Corn and Maple Spoon Bread is a delightful twist on the classic, combining the sweetness of maple syrup and fresh corn kernels to add texture. The maple syrup gives it a beautiful golden color and a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the earthy flavor of corn, creating a spoon bread that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the maple syrup, melted butter, salt, and fresh corn kernels. Let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, ensuring the mixture is well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the spoon bread is set.
6. Serve warm, drizzling with a little extra maple syrup if desired.

With a touch of maple syrup and fresh corn kernels, this spoon bread brings out a slightly more complex flavor and texture, making it a memorable addition to any meal. The sweet and earthy notes blend perfectly, creating a satisfying side dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern comfort food.

Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Southern Spoon Bread

This Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Southern Spoon Bread adds a cozy twist to the classic recipe. The combination of warm brown sugar and aromatic cinnamon creates a comforting flavor profile reminiscent of holiday desserts, while still keeping the fluffy, custard-like texture of traditional spoon bread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top.

This spoon bread’s rich brown sugar and cinnamon flavors make it ideal for cooler weather or holiday meals, offering a familiar sweetness with a unique Southern twist. It’s perfect as a cozy side dish or even a breakfast treat.

Southern Sweet Potato Spoon Bread

Southern Sweet Potato Spoon Bread combines the creamy texture of spoon bread with the earthy sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes. The addition of sweet potatoes not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful orange color, making it a delicious and visually appealing side dish for any Southern-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and nutmeg. Let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and set.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a bit of extra nutmeg if desired.

This Sweet Potato Spoon Bread is a beautiful, comforting dish that feels like a cross between spoon bread and sweet potato casserole. It’s perfect for holidays or any time you want to add a touch of Southern charm and color to the table.

Southern Coconut Spoon Bread with Vanilla

The Southern Coconut Spoon Bread with Vanilla brings a tropical twist to traditional spoon bread. Adding shredded coconut and a hint of vanilla extract gives it an exotic flavor that’s both sweet and fragrant. This unique variation is great for family gatherings or any special occasion where you want to impress with a bit of Southern flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the sugar, melted butter, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, with extra shredded coconut sprinkled on top, if desired.

The addition of coconut and vanilla in this spoon bread recipe brings an exciting, tropical flavor that’s sweet, aromatic, and slightly decadent. This unique spoon bread is a wonderful twist on a Southern classic, perfect for making any gathering feel just a bit more special and festive.

Maple Pecan Southern Spoon Bread

Maple Pecan Southern Spoon Bread brings together the rich sweetness of maple syrup and the buttery crunch of pecans, creating a comforting, slightly nutty version of classic spoon bread. This variation is perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday dinners, adding warmth and texture to the table with every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the maple syrup, melted butter, salt, and pecans. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans, if desired.

The combination of maple and pecan in this spoon bread adds a delightful sweetness and satisfying crunch that elevate the dish beyond the traditional recipe. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and festive gatherings, providing a taste of Southern charm with a seasonal twist.

Apple Cinnamon Southern Spoon Bread

Apple Cinnamon Southern Spoon Bread blends the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon into a tender, spoonable bread that’s reminiscent of a warm apple pie. This sweet, fragrant variation is ideal for a fall brunch, dessert, or as a unique side dish for holiday dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/2 cup peeled and finely diced apple
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the brown sugar, melted butter, diced apple, cinnamon, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey, if desired.

The apple and cinnamon in this spoon bread bring a cozy, comforting flavor that makes it perfect for the fall season. This warm and slightly sweet dish pairs wonderfully with savory or sweet mains, adding a bit of Southern charm and holiday spirit to your table.

Southern Banana Pudding Spoon Bread

Inspired by the classic Southern dessert, this Southern Banana Pudding Spoon Bread adds mashed bananas and a hint of vanilla for a sweet, creamy twist. The bananas give a natural sweetness and add a unique tropical flavor, while the custardy texture makes this dish feel extra indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 1-2 bananas)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the sugar, melted butter, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm, with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top.

This banana pudding-inspired spoon bread brings a nostalgic Southern flavor that feels like a dessert but works just as well as a unique side dish. Its creamy texture and sweet banana flavor make it a delightful addition to brunches or family dinners, satisfying any craving for something both sweet and comforting.

Southern Caramel Sweet Spoon Bread

Southern Caramel Sweet Spoon Bread is a decadent twist on traditional spoon bread, combining the buttery richness of caramel with a hint of vanilla for a deeply satisfying flavor. With a soft, custard-like texture and the sweetness of caramel, this spoon bread is ideal for special occasions, bringing elegance and comfort to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the caramel sauce, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce over each serving if desired.

The caramel in this spoon bread adds a luxurious sweetness, making it a standout side dish or even a light dessert. It brings a smooth, buttery flavor that’s hard to resist, making it a perfect dish for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special.

Buttermilk Southern Sweet Spoon Bread

Buttermilk Southern Sweet Spoon Bread uses tangy buttermilk to add richness and depth to the classic recipe. The buttermilk gives it a slightly tangy flavor that balances beautifully with a hint of sweetness, resulting in a spoon bread that feels both light and indulgent—a lovely addition to any Southern-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the buttermilk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the sugar, melted butter, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder, baking soda, and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm, perhaps with a pat of butter on each serving.

This buttermilk spoon bread has a balanced flavor profile that combines tanginess with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a great companion to hearty, savory dishes and brings a touch of Southern charm and creaminess to any meal.

Southern Pumpkin Spice Spoon Bread

Southern Pumpkin Spice Spoon Bread combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, making it an autumnal favorite. With notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of brown sugar, this spoon bread has the comforting flavors of fall baked into each spoonful. It’s perfect as a seasonal side dish or a unique addition to a holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top.

The pumpkin spice twist in this spoon bread adds a cozy, seasonal flavor that’s ideal for autumn gatherings. This dish brings together the creamy, comforting texture of traditional spoon bread with a festive blend of spices, making it a great option for holiday meals or a chilly night in.

Southern Honey Butter Spoon Bread

Southern Honey Butter Spoon Bread combines the natural sweetness of honey with the richness of butter, resulting in a soft, tender bread that’s irresistibly sweet and buttery. This version brings an extra layer of Southern charm, perfect for brunch or as a sweet side dish for hearty meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the honey, melted butter, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, with an extra drizzle of honey and a pat of butter on each serving.

The honey butter combination in this spoon bread offers a delightful blend of sweetness and creaminess, bringing a warm, Southern flavor to your table. This version is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any meal that could use a touch of comforting sweetness.

Southern Chocolate Chip Spoon Bread

Southern Chocolate Chip Spoon Bread adds a touch of decadence with melty chocolate chips throughout each bite. This dessert-like variation makes spoon bread even more enjoyable for chocolate lovers, turning it into a sweet side dish or light dessert that’s especially popular with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, with extra chocolate chips on top if desired.

This chocolate chip version of spoon bread is like a dessert and a side dish rolled into one. The chocolate chips add a sweet, indulgent flavor to the classic Southern dish, making it perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something extra comforting and sweet.

Southern Lemon Blueberry Spoon Bread

Southern Lemon Blueberry Spoon Bread brings a refreshing burst of flavor with fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon zest. This spoon bread is slightly tangy, subtly sweet, and has a pop of juicy blueberries in every bite, making it an excellent choice for spring or summer gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the sugar, melted butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Let the mixture cool slightly, then gently fold in the blueberries.
4. Stir in the baking powder and beaten eggs, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
6. Serve warm, with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a drizzle of honey if desired.

This lemon blueberry spoon bread adds a refreshing twist with its citrusy zest and bursts of juicy blueberries. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, offering a light and fruity complement to savory dishes or a delightful, Southern-inspired dessert option for any meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!