Easy Cornbread Recipe: A Simple Guide to Delicious Homemade Bread
Are you looking for a quick and easy cornbread recipe that delivers amazing results? Look no further! This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, offering a delicious, moist, and slightly sweet cornbread that’s perfect as a side dish or even a dessert. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. You'll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or a mix of all-purpose and cornmeal for a stronger corn flavor)
- ¾ cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
- ¾ cup sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder – ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors.
- 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together.
- 1 cup milk – adds moisture and tenderness.
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter – adds richness and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginners. Here's how to make it:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or a cast iron skillet for optimal results. Dusting with cornmeal before adding the batter will prevent sticking and add a nice texture.
2. Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure even leavening.
3. Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
4. Combine Wet & Dry:
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough cornbread, so be gentle!
5. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve:
Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Perfect Cornbread:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cornbread. Mix just until the ingredients are moistened.
- Use fresh baking powder: Old baking powder can lead to a flat cornbread. Check the expiration date.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to ½ cup or even less.
- Experiment with add-ins: Get creative! Add in ½ cup of crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, or chopped jalapenos for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile cornbread is delicious on its own, but it's also amazing served with:
- Chili: A classic pairing!
- Soup: Perfect for soaking up flavorful broths.
- Stews: Adds a comforting element to hearty meals.
- Butter and Honey: A simple yet satisfying dessert.
This easy cornbread recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Let us know in the comments how yours turns out!
