American Cornbread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This American cornbread recipe is the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced bakers. The cornbread comes out moist and tender, with a light crumb and a slightly crisped golden top. It’s the ideal accompaniment to any meal, from family dinners to holiday feasts. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own with a dollop of butter or served with a variety of main dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup melted butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan or cast-iron skillet.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until fully combined.

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

1. Cheddar Cornbread: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.

2. Jalapeño Cornbread: Chop a jalapeño and add it to the batter for a spicy kick.

3. Honey Cornbread: Mix in 2 tablespoons of honey for added sweetness.

4. Gluten-Free Cornbread: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

5. Corn and Bacon Cornbread: Add 1/2 cup of sweet corn kernels and 1/4 cup of crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the cornbread to cool completely before storing. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze leftover cornbread by wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply wrap the cornbread in foil and heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk gives the cornbread a tangy flavor and helps create a lighter, fluffier texture.

2. How can I make cornbread less sweet?

You can reduce or eliminate the sugar in the recipe to make a less sweet, more savory cornbread.

3. Can I make this cornbread in advance?

Yes, cornbread can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for later use.

4. Why is my cornbread too crumbly?

If your cornbread is too crumbly, it may be due to overmixing the batter or not having enough moisture. Make sure to mix the ingredients just until combined, and check that the wet-to-dry ingredient ratio is correct.

5. Can I use a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, a cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for cornbread. It creates a beautifully crisp edge while keeping the interior moist.

6. How do I make cornbread moist?

To keep your cornbread moist, don’t overbake it, and ensure you use enough wet ingredients like buttermilk and melted butter. If you find it too dry, you can add a bit more butter or buttermilk.

7. Can I add vegetables to the cornbread?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as corn kernels, bell peppers, or onions for added flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk and the butter with a plant-based alternative.

9. How do I know when the cornbread is done?

When the cornbread is done, the top will be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. If you do, make sure to adjust the baking time, as it may take a little longer to cook through.

Conclusion

American cornbread is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of meals. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it sweet or savory, cornbread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next meal. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with a pat of butter, or get creative with variations that suit your taste!