Cracklin' Bread
Cracklin' Bread is a hearty, crunchy cornbread infused with flavorful cracklings. Its rustic taste and crispy texture make it perfect for family dinners or outdoor gatherings. The combination of cornmeal, eggs, and cracklings creates a satisfying, savory bread that pairs well with stews and chili.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the cornmeal with boiling water and let it cool slightly.
- Add shortening to the cornmeal mixture and stir.
- Thoroughly beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
- Add milk and salt to the beaten eggs and mix well.
- Combine the egg mixture with the cooled cornmeal mixture.
- Add baking powder and cracklings to the combined mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased pan.
- Bake in a moderately hot oven at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the milk with buttermilk, which will also give the bread a slight tang. If you can't find cracklings, crispy bacon bits or even fried onions can work as a substitute. Ensure the water is boiling before adding to the cornmeal to achieve the right texture and prevent lumps.
Serving Suggestions
Cracklin' bread makes a hearty side to a variety of dishes. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Judy'S Salad or can be served alongside soups and stews. For a complete meal, enjoy it with a plate of Vegetable Bake or as a complement to a hearty breakfast alongside eggs and bacon.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cracklin' bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracklin' Bread contains roughly 814 calories, with 10g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (84% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2532mg per serving (110% 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 cracklin' bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cracklin' bread a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Reheat it in the oven before serving to ensure it remains warm and fresh.
What type of cracklings should I use?
Pork cracklings are traditional, but you can also use chicken or turkey cracklings for a different flavor. Ensure they are well-crisped for the best texture in the bread.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cornmeal with a gluten-free cornmeal or a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that all your ingredients, including baking powder, are certified gluten-free to keep the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).