Crusty Cornbread
Crusty cornbread offers a golden, crunchy crust with tender, flavorful interior—perfect for Southern comfort, pairing well with hearty stews or chili, and enjoyed by bread lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; mix well.
- Add beaten egg and buttermilk to the dry ingredients; stir until smooth.
- Place bacon drippings in a 9-inch cast-iron skillet.
- Heat the skillet at 425°F for 5 minutes.
- Remove skillet from oven and pour hot bacon drippings into the batter; mix well.
- Quickly pour the batter into the hot skillet.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cornmeal and coarse corn flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure to preheat the skillet well to achieve that perfect crust. For added texture, you can also mix in some shredded cheese or jalapeños into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This cornbread pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like chili or serve it alongside Green Beans And Bean Sprouts for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with butter and honey for a sweet touch. It's perfect for breakfast, served with eggs, or as a side to Pork recipes at your next family gathering.
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 refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty Cornbread contains roughly 109 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1231mg per serving (54% 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 cornbread without bacon drippings?
Yes, you can substitute bacon drippings with vegetable oil, melted butter, or even lard for a different flavor profile. Each alternative will give the cornbread a unique taste, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
What can I add to the cornbread for more flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of your cornbread by adding ingredients like shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or diced jalapeños. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be mixed in for an aromatic touch.
How do I know when the cornbread is done baking?
The cornbread is done when it's golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It should also have a slight spring when gently pressed. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).