Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 31 reviews

If you’re craving a delightful, cozy treat that brings together the best of salty, cheesy, and sweet corn flavors, then this Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe is your new go-to comfort food. These golden, crispy cakes boast a tender crumb flecked with fresh chives and pockets of melted cheddar that create an irresistible combination of textures and tastes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves that warm, homemade touch paired with fresh, simple ingredients.

Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an essential role in creating those fluffy, flavorful cakes you’ll keep coming back to. From the cornmeal’s rustic texture to the sharpness of cheddar and the brightness of fresh chives, every element brings its own magic to the batter.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a smooth base for the cakes to hold together perfectly.
Self-rising cornmeal: Adds that classic corn flavor and a light, crumbly texture essential for corn cakes.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the corn and cheese.
Buttermilk: Brings a gentle tang and helps keep the cakes moist and tender.
Melted butter: Infuses richness and helps the cakes achieve a beautiful golden crust.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of savory goodness that make each bite unforgettable.
Drain corn kernels: Adds sweet bursts of natural corn flavor and a lovely popping texture.
Chopped chives: Offers a fresh, subtle onion flavor that brightens the dish.
Large eggs: Bind the batter together, ensuring those cakes hold their shape while cooking.
Sugar (optional): Just a touch to balance the natural sweetness without overpowering the savory elements.
Butter for the pan: Essential for crisping up the outside and adding that unbeatable buttery finish.

How to Make Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together your dry ingredients in a large bowl—this means the all-purpose flour, self-rising cornmeal, salt, and sugar if you’re using it. Next, add the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter, then stir everything together until just combined. This careful mixing helps create a batter that will be both fluffy and rich, setting the stage for those irresistible little cakes.

Step 2: Fold in the Corn, Cheese, and Chives

Now, gently fold in the drained corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, and freshly chopped chives. These ingredients are the star players, bringing texture, bursts of flavor, and a touch of color that make these cakes so special. Be sure to distribute them evenly but carefully—overmixing at this stage can make the cakes dense instead of tender.

Step 3: Cook the Corn Cakes

Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until it’s melted and bubbling. Using a scoop—an ice cream scoop works perfectly—drop portions of batter onto the skillet. Cook each cake until the bottom is a gorgeous golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, then flip gently and cook the other side until equally golden and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the pan as needed to keep that golden crust going.

How to Serve Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishes, simplicity is your friend. A sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions or parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that complements the richness of the cheddar. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve with a pat of melting butter or a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a perfect sweet-savory balance.

Side Dishes

Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe shine best when paired with light and fresh sides. Think crisp garden salad, a tangy cucumber yogurt sauce, or even some sautéed greens like spinach or kale. For breakfast or brunch, a side of crispy bacon or smoked sausage adds the ideal savory contrast that your taste buds will adore.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress at your next brunch or dinner, try stacking the corn cakes in mini towers topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives or crumbled bacon. Alternatively, use them as the base for savory sliders, adding pulled pork or grilled chicken on top. This versatility makes the Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover corn cakes store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply let them cool completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, they are just as delicious reheated and crisped up gently in a skillet.

Freezing

If you want to keep Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe on hand for even longer, they freeze wonderfully. After cooking, allow the cakes to cool and then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can pop out as many as you need later without any sticking together.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these cakes is in a lightly buttered skillet over medium heat. This reheating method rejuvenates the crispness on the outside while warming the inside perfectly, keeping that creamy cheddar melt and fresh chive flavor intact. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a slightly sweeter and brighter flavor. Just be sure to cook it briefly first or use raw kernels if you prefer a crunchier texture. Adjust the moisture in the batter if needed to keep the right consistency.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a simple substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using. This trick mimics the acidity and tang that buttermilk provides.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour and self-rising cornmeal. To make it gluten-free, look for a gluten-free cornmeal blend and substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.

Can I make these corn cakes vegan?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy and eggs, but you can experiment by substituting plant-based milk for buttermilk, vegan butter for regular butter, and flax or chia eggs for the eggs. Vegan shredded cheese can replace the cheddar. Texture and flavor will shift but it’s a fun adaptation to try.

How can I make the corn cakes extra crispy?

To get that perfect crispy exterior, make sure to cook them on medium heat rather than high, allowing the butter to brown slowly without burning. Using enough butter in the pan and flipping gently once the edges are set helps build that irresistible golden crust.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like home with every bite, and this Cheddar Corn Cakes with Chives Recipe is just that. Warm, comforting, and absolutely bursting with flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a simple dinner, these corn cakes bring joy to the table in the most delicious way. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s both humble and unforgettable!