Are you craving a taste of the South? Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, golden slice of cornbread, especially when made with real corn kernels for extra sweetness and texture. This recipe delivers a moist, flavorful cornbread that's perfect alongside chili, soup, or simply enjoyed on its own. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the true taste of homemade cornbread – it's surprisingly simple to make and unbelievably delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (coarse ground is best for texture)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure even leavening.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, oil, and egg. A quick whisk is all you need; don't overmix.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; don't overmix. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cornbread. A few lumps are okay! Now, gently fold in the corn kernels.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Perfect Cornbread:
- Fresh Corn is Best: If you can get your hands on fresh, sweet corn, use it! The flavor difference is remarkable.
- Don't Overmix: This is crucial for a tender crumb. Mix just until the ingredients are moistened.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
- Add-ins: Feel free to experiment! Chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon are delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a kick.
- Sweet Cornbread: Increase the sugar to ¾ cup for a sweeter cornbread. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread: Add ½ cup of diced jalapeños and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
- Fiber: Approximately 2g
This easy cornbread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic addition to any meal and a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can be both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy!