Granddad'S Eastern Shore Sweet Pone
A traditional Southern sweet corn pone with rich corn flavor, molasses sweetness, and hearty texture. Perfect for breakfast, sides, or family gatherings that enjoy comforting classics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald in a saucepan the corn meal with the boiling water, stirring constantly.
- Mix in flour, brown sugar, molasses, and salt.
- Pour in cold water and stir to get out most lumps.
- Bake overnight very slowly at low temperature, 200°F.
- Bake either in crock-pot or in a cast-iron or other heavy container in the oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the mixture. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. Be sure to stir the cornmeal mixture continuously to prevent lumps while scalding. Using a cast-iron skillet can enhance the dish's flavor due to its heat retention properties.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Granddad's Eastern Shore Sweet Pone warm, drizzled with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like grilled meats or BBQ, such as David's Barbecue Sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granddad'S Eastern Shore Sweet Pone contains roughly 1630 calories, with 7g protein, 404g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (138% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), and iron (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of sweeteners instead of brown sugar and molasses?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or regular granulated sugar, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. For molasses, consider using agave syrup or honey as alternatives, although they will change the sweetness profile.
How do I know when the pone is done baking?
The pone is done when it has a firm texture and a golden-brown crust. You can test it by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it's ready. Remember, it should be cooked slowly to achieve the right consistency.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and ensure you have a sufficiently large baking dish. Keep in mind that the baking time may slightly increase, so monitor it closely 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).