Are you craving a simple and delicious cornbread recipe that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! Our Quick and Easy Cornbread Recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to enjoy a homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen. This cornbread is moist, fluffy, and has just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab your apron and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering cornbread!
Ingredients
To make this quick and easy cornbread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s get started on making your delicious cornbread:
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch (23cm) square baking dish. This will ensure that your cornbread doesn’t stick to the dish and makes for easy removal later.
-
In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix them well with a whisk or a fork until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs. Make sure they are well combined before proceeding to the next step.
-
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can result in a denser cornbread.
-
Once the batter is mixed, pour it into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. This will give your cornbread an even appearance.
-
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step may require some adjustment depending on your oven, so keep an eye on your cornbread as it bakes.
-
Once your cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes in the baking dish. This will prevent it from falling apart when you cut into it.
-
After the cornbread has cooled slightly, you can proceed to cut it into squares and serve. The size of the squares is up to your preference, but we recommend a size that is easy to handle and enjoy.
Variations
If you’re looking to add some extra flair to your cornbread, here are a few variations you can try:
Cheesy Cornbread
For a savory twist, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter before baking. The melted cheese will add a delicious gooeyness to each bite.
Jalapeno Cornbread
If you like a bit of heat, finely chop 1-2 jalapeno peppers and add them to the batter. This will give your cornbread a spicy kick that pairs well with chili or other hearty dishes.
Corn and Bacon Cornbread
For added texture and flavor, stir in 1/2 cup of corn kernels and 1/4 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon to the batter. This combination of sweet corn and savory bacon is a crowd-pleaser.
Honey Butter Cornbread
For a touch of sweetness, serve the cornbread warm with a spread of honey butter. To make honey butter, simply combine softened butter with honey to taste. The sweet and creamy butter will complement the cornbread perfectly.
Herb Cornbread
To add an extra layer of flavor, try adding 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dry ingredients. This will give your cornbread an aromatic and herbaceous taste.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the best cornbread possible:
Use coarse or medium-grind cornmeal
For a more textured cornbread, it is recommended to use coarse or medium-grind cornmeal. This will give your cornbread a slightly crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft interior.
Substitute buttermilk for regular milk
If you prefer a lighter and fluffier texture, you can substitute buttermilk for the regular milk in the recipe. The acidity of buttermilk helps to create a tender texture in the cornbread.
Add a pinch of spice
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the batter. This will give your cornbread a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Pair with your favorite dishes
Cornbread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed alongside various meals. It goes well with chili, stews, BBQ, and can also be served as a side for soups and salads. The possibilities are endless!
Store and reheat leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. When reheating, wrap individual pieces in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
To make sure you have all the answers, here are some frequently asked questions about this quick and easy cornbread recipe:
Can I use cornbread mix instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can definitely use a store-bought cornbread mix if you prefer the convenience. Simply follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of flour like whole wheat or corn flour for different textures. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cornbread recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. This will help accommodate those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Can I make the cornbread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cornbread a day in advance and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature. When you are ready to serve, simply warm it up before serving to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Can I freeze the cornbread?
Yes, you can freeze the cornbread for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature until it has defrosted completely. If desired, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave for a warm and delicious treat.
Conclusion
With this quick and easy cornbread recipe, you can enjoy homemade cornbread in no time. Whether you prefer it plain or with added flavors, this cornbread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with the variations and serve it alongside your favorite meals or as a tasty snack on its own. The possibilities are endless when it comes to this versatile and delicious bread. So grab your ingredients and get baking!
