Spoon Bread
Spoon bread offers a soft, moist, and slightly custardy texture with a gentle corn flavor, making it a comforting side dish or breakfast. Its light, fluffy consistency pairs well with savory or sweet accompaniments, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, flavorful baked goods with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the cornmeal with salt and add boiling water, stirring until smooth.
- Add butter and stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Add beaten eggs and milk to the mixture.
- Sprinkle baking powder over the top and stir quickly into the batter.
- Pour into greased pan or pans and bake at 350°F for 1 hour for a large pan or 45 to 50 minutes for 2 pie pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the cornmeal with a gluten-free cornmeal blend. Make sure to sift the cornmeal thoroughly to avoid lumps. Additionally, if you want a hint of sweetness, a tablespoon of sugar can be added to the batter. This spoon bread pairs beautifully with Wanda'S Seven Layer Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon bread is best served warm and can be enjoyed as a side dish with savory meals. It pairs wonderfully with hearty soups or stews, and a dollop of butter on top enhances its flavor. For a delightful brunch option, serve it alongside fruit preserves or honey. You might also enjoy it with Strawberry Nut Bread for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spoon bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil, and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spoon Bread contains roughly 717 calories, with 6g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1179mg per serving (51% 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 spoon bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before pouring it into the pan and baking. However, it's best to bake it fresh for optimal texture.
What can I substitute for milk in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk or soy milk can be great substitutes for regular milk. For a richer flavor, you can also use buttermilk or yogurt thinned with a little water, which will add a nice tang to the dish.
Why is my spoon bread not rising?
If your spoon bread isn't rising, it may be due to the baking powder being expired or not mixed well into the batter. Additionally, ensure you're using the correct proportions of wet to dry ingredients, as too much liquid can also prevent proper rising.
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).