Old Fashioned Cornbread Recipe

🚨Be sure to leave a 5 star rating if you like this recipe!🚨

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cornbread wafting through the kitchen. This Old Fashioned Cornbread Recipe pays homage to traditional Southern flavors, delivering a golden-brown crust and a moist, crumbly interior.

Whether paired with chili, served alongside barbecue, or enjoyed on its own, this classic cornbread is a timeless treat that brings warmth to any table.

Why I Love This Dish

I adore old-fashioned cornbread for its rustic charm and versatility. It can be served alongside a variety of dishes, such as chili, soup, or barbecue, or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of honey or butter.

The process of making cornbread is straightforward and rewarding, producing a hearty bread that’s both satisfying and nostalgic.

Total Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 8 servings)

• Calories: 200-250
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fat: 8-10g
• Sodium: 300-400mg
• Fiber: 2-3g

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a cast-iron skillet or a baking pan with a bit of butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Stir the dry ingredients together until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.
8. Slice and serve warm. Optionally, drizzle with honey or butter for an extra touch of indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Did Cornbread Become So Popular?

Cornbread has become a beloved and popular side dish for American holidays for several compelling reasons. One key factor is its remarkable versatility, seamlessly pairing with a diverse array of dishes, be it hearty stews, chili, barbecue, or Thanksgiving turkey.

With its mild flavor and crumbly texture, cornbread offers a delightful complement to various meals, making it a staple on holiday tables. Its deep roots in Southern cuisine also play a significant role, as many American holiday traditions incorporate Southern influences, and cornbread is a quintessential part of that culinary heritage.

The ease of preparation adds to its appeal; requiring basic pantry ingredients like cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk, cornbread is a straightforward addition to holiday feasts, especially during busy cooking seasons.

Beyond its practicality, cornbread carries cultural significance, reflecting a history where ingredients like cornmeal were more readily available than wheat flour. Its association with comfort food and the warmth it brings to gatherings contribute to its timeless popularity during special occasions.

Regional variations across the United States add to the richness of cornbread’s appeal, allowing people to choose the style that resonates with their preferences and traditions.

In essence, cornbread has secured its place as a cherished and versatile side dish, embodying the spirit of American holidays and connecting generations through its comforting and delicious presence on the festive table.

Why do Southerners not put sugar in cornbread?

In Southern cooking tradition, cornbread is typically made without sugar, reflecting a preference for its original, savory form. The Southern style of cornbread leans more towards being an accompaniment to savory dishes like greens, beans, and stews, where a sweet flavor would not necessarily complement the main dish.

Historically, cornbread in the South was a staple food, made from simple, affordable ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and lard or bacon fat. Adding sugar to cornbread is often seen as a deviation from this tradition, moving it towards a cake-like consistency and taste that is not in line with the Southern culinary heritage.

For many Southerners, the essence of cornbread lies in its rustic simplicity and its role as a hearty side dish rather than a sweet treat.

Why is cornbread not healthy?

Cornbread can be perceived as less healthy due to its ingredients and preparation methods. Traditional recipes often include refined flour, sugar, and large amounts of butter or oil, which contribute to its high calorie and fat content.

Additionally, cornmeal, while a source of nutrients like fiber and vitamins, is typically made from processed white corn, which can lead to a higher glycemic index and less nutritional value compared to whole-grain alternatives.

However, the healthiness of cornbread can vary based on how it’s made. For instance, using whole-grain cornmeal, reducing the sugar and fat, and incorporating ingredients like low-fat buttermilk or yogurt can make a healthier version of cornbread.

But in its classic, indulgent form, especially when served with generous amounts of butter or honey, cornbread can be quite rich and not necessarily the healthiest choice, particularly for those watching their calorie, sugar, or fat intake.

Helpful Resources

• All our Bread recipes
• An interesting article on the culture of cornbread

Wrap-Up

This Old Fashioned Cornbread Recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor, capturing the essence of traditional Southern cuisine. Its golden crust and tender crumb make it a versatile side dish or a standalone treat for any occasion.

Share the warmth and taste the nostalgia with this classic cornbread recipe.