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–+ servings
Cornbread
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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 195 kcal

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 8x8-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
Keyword comfort food, cornbread, easy bread, homemade, old fashioned, quick bread, southern baking, vintage recipe
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