Are you craving a taste of the South? Then look no further! This recipe for white cornbread is a classic for a reason – it's incredibly easy to make, unbelievably delicious, and the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will guide you to perfectly crumbly, subtly sweet cornbread every time. It's one of those easy recipes that's always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a comforting addition to a weekend brunch.
Ingredients: You'll only need a handful!
This recipe emphasizes simple ingredients to let the cornbread's natural flavor shine. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cornbread Perfection
Follow these simple steps for perfectly textured, delicious cornbread:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or a cast iron skillet – this prevents sticking and ensures even baking. Lightly flour the pan for extra insurance.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to prevent pockets of baking powder from creating uneven rising.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, and egg.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour and can result in a tough cornbread. A few lumps are okay.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Best White Cornbread:
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Buttermilk is Key: Buttermilk adds a delightful 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.
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Don't Overmix: This is crucial for a tender crumb. Mix just until the ingredients are moistened.
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Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. Every oven is different, so it's always best to check for yourself.
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Cast Iron Magic: For extra crispy edges and a deeper flavor, bake your cornbread in a cast iron skillet.
Variations to Spice Things Up:
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Spicy Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a kick.
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Cheesy Cornbread: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend before baking.
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Herb Cornbread: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as chives or rosemary, for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on 12 servings and may vary slightly based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 3-4g
This recipe for white cornbread is a simple addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that’s both quick and satisfying. Enjoy!