Batter (Spoon) Bread
A light, airy spoon bread with a crisp crust and tender interior, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comforting corn flavor and warm textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cornmeal, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Add beaten eggs, sweet milk, and enough boiling water to make a very thin batter. Stir in melted butter and lard.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased baking dish.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 375°F for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother batter, whisk the eggs separately before adding them to the mixture. If you don't have lard, you can substitute with additional butter or vegetable oil. For added flavor, consider folding in some shredded cheese or chopped herbs. This batter can be quite thin, so ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this batter bread warm, slathered with butter or honey for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with soups and stews, such as a hearty vegetable soup or a rich chili. For a sweet twist, enjoy it alongside a fruit preserve or alongside desserts like Cinnamon Icebox Cookies for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover batter bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through. This bread can also be frozen for longer storage; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Batter (Spoon) Bread contains roughly 914 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1422mg per serving (62% 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 use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk with any non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Just ensure the non-dairy milk is unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance of the batter. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield a delicious result.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the bread?
Consider adding ingredients like shredded cheese, chopped jalapeños, or herbs such as rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor profile. These additions make it a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.
Why is my batter bread dense?
A dense batter bread could be due to overmixing the batter or not using enough liquid. Ensure that you measure your ingredients accurately and mix just until combined. If the batter seems too thick, you can add a little more boiling water to achieve the desired consistency.
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).