Classic Cornbread

Name: Classic Cornbread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal (stone-ground recommended); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg (beaten)

35 min 8 slices Easy

All Recipes

Classic Cornbread

Discover the classic cornbread, a golden, crumbly delight perfect as a side dish to complement any meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cornbread is a staple in many households, bringing a touch of rustic charm to the table. Its origins lie in North American indigenous cuisine, where corn has been a fundamental ingredient for centuries. This dish combines the earthy taste of cornmeal with the lightness of flour to create a bread that's both hearty and satisfying. Whether served as a side to soups, stews, or barbecue, cornbread is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes. Some prefer it sweet, while others enjoy a more savoury version. This classic recipe strikes a balance, offering a hint of sweetness that complements its naturally rich corn flavour.

Ingredients

Servings

Dry Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Pro tip: A hot oven helps create a golden crust.

Prepare the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Pro tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can help reduce lumps.

Mix the wet ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth.

Pro tip: Ensure the melted butter is not too hot to prevent cooking the egg prematurely.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Pro tip: Overmixing can lead to a dense cornbread.

Prepare the baking dish

Grease a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking dish or a cast iron skillet with butter or non-stick spray.

Pro tip: Using a cast iron skillet can enhance the crust's crispiness.

Bake the cornbread

Pour the batter into the prepared dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil.

Cool and serve

Allow the cornbread to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro tip: Serve warm for the best flavour and texture.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use stone-ground cornmeal for a rustic texture and authentic flavour.</li><li>Baking in a cast iron skillet creates a crisp crust.</li><li>Add a touch of honey for a sweeter variation.</li><li>Serve warm with a pat of butter for extra richness.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Cornbread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, when it's still warm and its crust is perfectly crisp. Pair it with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence. To store, wrap it in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and reheat them as needed.