Mcgee'S Cracklin Corn Bread
Cracklin cornbread offers a savory, crispy crust with tender interior, featuring rich bacon fat and cracklins. Perfect for comforting family dinners or Southern-inspired gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a temperature suitable for baking the cornbread.
- Heat a heavy 10-inch ovenproof skillet in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, baking soda, all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and bacon fat.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the cracklins gently into the batter.
- Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add a little bacon fat to coat the bottom.
- Pour the batter into the hot skillet, spreading evenly.
- Bake until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade cracklins if available. You can substitute the buttermilk with milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tang. If you don't have bacon fat, melted butter works well too. Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired, especially if serving alongside savory dishes like Country-Style Barbecued Ribs Or Oven Baked.
Serving Suggestions
This cornbread pairs beautifully with a hearty bowl of chili or alongside a savory egg dish like Egg Quiche. Consider serving it with a drizzle of honey or butter for added flavor. It also complements southern-style meals, making it an excellent side for your favorite pork recipes or barbecued dishes. Enjoy it warm for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two 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 until warmed through, or microwave for a few seconds for a quick option, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mcgee'S Cracklin Corn Bread contains roughly 53 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 955mg per serving (42% 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 regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk by adding a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice per cup of milk to mimic buttermilk's acidity. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using, which will help achieve a similar texture and flavor in the cornbread.
What can I use instead of cracklins?
If you're looking for a substitute for cracklins, crispy bacon bits or even toasted nuts can provide a similar crunch. For a vegetarian option, consider using toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to add texture without the meat.
How do I know when the cornbread is done baking?
The cornbread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning while the inside cooks through.
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).