Are you craving a warm, comforting side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This crockpot cornbread recipe is a game-changer, delivering moist, flavorful cornbread with minimal effort. Forget oven-baked versions that require constant monitoring; this method lets you enjoy delicious homemade cooking without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or effortless weekend meals, this recipe is a staple for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals alike. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed to prevent lumps in your final cornbread.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vegetable oil, and melted butter (if using).
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread.
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Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your delicious cornbread.
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Pour Batter: Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared slow cooker. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-2 ½ hours, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the slow cooker for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Cornbread:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cornbread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cornbread is cooked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Start checking for doneness around the 2-hour mark.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Add in chopped jalapeños, cheddar cheese, or corn kernels for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Cornbread: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend.
- Sweet Cornbread: Increase the sugar to ½ cup for a sweeter cornbread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: Around 8-10g
- Protein: Around 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
This easy crockpot cornbread recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes for those seeking easy and delicious food recipes. From simple weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, this cornbread recipe shines.