Corn Gems
Corn Gems are flaky, buttery pastries with a hint of sweetness, perfect for breakfast or snacks. Their crispy exterior and tender interior appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk and add it to the margarine, sugar, salt, and cornmeal. Allow to cool and melt the margarine.
- Stir in the dissolved yeast.
- Add 2 cups of flour and mix well.
- Turn the mixture onto a floured board and knead until smooth.
- Allow the dough to rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a 16-inch diameter or larger circle.
- Cut the rolled dough into 24 wedges. Roll each wedge starting at the wide end.
- Place the wedges on a greased cookie sheet.
- Let the dough rise until puffed. Before baking, grease the tops with margarine and sprinkle with cornmeal.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have cornmeal, finely ground polenta can be a suitable substitute. Make sure the milk is scalded properly to activate the yeast effectively. Kneading the dough until smooth is crucial for achieving the right texture, so don't rush this step. Also, ensure the water used for dissolving the yeast is warm, not hot, to prevent killing the yeast.
Serving Suggestions
These Corn Gems are delightful served warm as a snack or alongside soups and stews. They pair beautifully with chili or can be enjoyed with a spread of honey or butter for breakfast. For a complete meal, serve them with a fresh salad or alongside dishes like Chili Cocktail Pie. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread with items like One Hour Buttermilk Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the Corn Gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they remain soft and fluffy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Gems contains roughly 83 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start by using a little less than 2 cups and add more if necessary to achieve the right dough consistency.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or cooler temperatures. Ensure your yeast is fresh and proof it first by mixing it with warm water and a bit of sugar. If the dough is in a cold environment, try placing it in a warm spot or using an oven set to a low temperature to encourage rising.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese or herbs can enhance the flavor of your Corn Gems. Incorporate them during the mixing stage after adding the flour. Just be mindful of the additional moisture they may introduce, particularly with cheese, which might require slight adjustments to the liquid ingredients.
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).