Favorite Corn Bread
A classic, moist corn bread with a slightly sweet flavor, crispy crust, perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, eggs, and melted shortening to the dry ingredients.
- Beat the mixture for 1 minute until well blended.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch square baking pan.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and tests done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter cornbread, consider increasing the sugar to 1/3 cup. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. If you're out of shortening, melted butter or vegetable oil can be used instead. For extra moisture, add a small amount of sour cream or yogurt. Experiment with add-ins like corn kernels or jalapeños for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This cornbread pairs beautifully with Creamy Spinach Dip In Bread Bowl or can be served alongside a hearty chili or soup. For a breakfast option, enjoy it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. You can also serve it as a side with Green Beans In Herb Butter for a delightful meal that showcases American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its warmth and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Corn Bread contains roughly 216 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1013mg per serving (44% 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 gluten-free?
Yes, to make this cornbread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may differ slightly, but it should still be delicious.
How do I know when the cornbread is done baking?
The cornbread is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it after 20 minutes, as baking times can vary with different ovens.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar, or fresh herbs like chives can elevate the flavor of your cornbread. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the baking pan for a tasty variation.
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).