Are you craving a comforting, delicious side dish that's as easy to make as it is satisfying? Look no further than Frieda's famous cornbread recipe! This isn't your average cornbread; it's a fluffy, slightly sweet, and intensely flavorful masterpiece that will become a staple at your dinner table. Perfect alongside chili, soups, stews, or even enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this easy recipe will guide you to cornbread perfection. Let's get started on this journey to homemade cooking bliss!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend bake.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Made Easy
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked cornbread every time.
Step 1: Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Step 2: 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 well combined to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, and egg. If using, add your honey or maple syrup here.
Step 4: Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread, so aim for a few gentle stirs until no dry flour remains.
Step 5: Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for Cornbread Success
- Buttermilk Magic: Buttermilk adds a wonderful tang and moisture to the cornbread. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Don't Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cornbread.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your cornbread is ready.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy delight, or crumbled bacon for extra savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
This recipe offers a healthy and delicious side dish, perfect for adding to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It's a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal, transforming a regular dinner into a truly memorable experience. Enjoy!