Never-Fail Corn Bread
A classic, moist cornbread with a tender crumb and crispy crust, perfect for family dinners or holiday meals, offering a comforting Southern flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine self-rising flour, self-rising cornmeal, eggs, sugar, milk, and melted shortening in a bowl; mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cast-iron skillet.
- Bake at 450°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly sweeter cornbread, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar or honey. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Mixing in some shredded cheese or jalapeños can also elevate the flavor. Remember to check for doneness, as baking times may vary based on your oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cornbread warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat. It pairs beautifully with chili or stews, making it an excellent addition to a cozy meal. For a sweeter touch, serve it alongside Aunt Irene'S Chocolate Pie for dessert or enjoy it with a drizzle of honey for breakfast. Consider adding a fresh salad on the side for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or microwave slices for 20-30 seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never-Fail Corn Bread contains roughly 491 calories, with 6g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 whole wheat flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but be sure to add baking powder and salt to mimic the self-rising properties. Use 1 cup of whole wheat flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure proper rising and texture.
What can I add to the cornbread for extra flavor?
Consider adding ingredients like shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or corn kernels for added texture and flavor. Fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can also enhance the taste. For a sweet variation, mix in some blueberries or cranberries before baking.
Can I freeze the cornbread for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
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).