Cornbread is a staple of American comfort food, particularly in Southern and Midwestern kitchens. This simple and hearty quick bread uses a blend of cornmeal and flour for balanced texture, while a touch of sugar adds subtle sweetness. Baked golden at a high temperature, it develops a tender crumb and crisp edges. Traditionally served alongside chili, greens, or beans, this versatile bread has been a table favorite for decades, warm, satisfying, and easy to make with pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup flour (sifted )
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup shortening (melted )
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, sifted flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Whisk to evenly blend.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
- Add milk and melted shortening to the egg and mix well.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.
- Stir just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Tips
- Add ½ cup canned corn kernels for a more rustic, hearty texture.
- Replace melted shortening with melted butter for richer flavor.
- Stir in 1 to 2 chopped jalapeños for a spicy variation.
- Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a savory, cheesy cornbread.
- Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangy, tender crumb.
- Bake in a preheated cast-iron skillet for crisp edges.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons honey for lightly sweet cornbread.
- Fold in crumbled cooked bacon for a savory twist.
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam.
- Double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan.
Nutrition
Calories: 195kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4.5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.3gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 1.5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 60IUCalcium: 105mgIron: 1.3mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!