African-American Cornbread
A moist and flavorful cornbread with a slightly sweet taste, perfect as a side dish for Southern-inspired meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, sugar, salt, flour, and baking powder.
- Add the egg, milk, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and mix well until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly sweeter cornbread, you can increase the sugar to 1/3 cup. If you prefer a denser texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Feel free to add ingredients like corn kernels or jalapeños for extra flavor. Remember to check the cornbread a few minutes before the timer goes off, as ovens can vary significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cornbread warm with butter or honey for a delicious treat. It pairs beautifully with dishes like chili or collard greens. Consider serving alongside a hearty stew or as a side for a barbecue. You can also crumble it into a bowl of soup for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of African-American Cornbread contains roughly 369 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1053mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cornbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cornbread a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to reheat, you can put it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving to regain its fresh texture.
What can I use as a substitute for milk?
You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute for regular milk. For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk or yogurt mixed with a little water. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese or fresh herbs like chives or rosemary can enhance the flavor of the cornbread. Just be mindful of the moisture content; if you add wet ingredients, you might need to adjust the flour slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).