The Best Cornbread Recipe with Corn: A Southern Classic

Cornbread, a staple in Southern cuisine, is a simple yet satisfying dish. A good Cornbread Recipe With Corn offers a delicate balance of sweet and savory, with a slightly crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with chili, BBQ, or simply enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance using fresh corn kernels to enhance the flavor and texture.

Why Fresh Corn Makes the Best Cornbread

While many cornbread recipes rely on cornmeal alone, adding fresh corn kernels elevates the dish to a new level. The kernels add a burst of sweetness and moisture, creating a more tender crumb. They also provide a delightful textural contrast to the slightly coarse cornmeal. This isn’t just your average cornbread; it’s a celebration of corn in all its glory.

Ingredients for Cornbread with Corn

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)

Step-by-Step Cornbread Recipe with Corn Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan. Choosing the right pan is crucial. Similar to choosing the right muffin tin, the material and size of your baking pan impact the final result. You want a pan that distributes heat evenly for a perfectly golden crust.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread.
5. Gently fold in the fresh corn kernels.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cornbread batter with fresh corn kernels

Tips for Perfect Cornbread Every Time

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher, less tender cornbread.
• Use fresh corn: While frozen corn can be used in a pinch, fresh corn provides the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, you can increase the sugar to ¾ cup.
• Let it cool slightly: Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting and serving. This allows it to set and prevents it from crumbling.

Golden brown cornbread in a baking pan

Variations on this Cornbread Recipe with Corn

This recipe is a great starting point, and you can easily customize it to your liking. Try adding some chopped jalapenos for a spicy kick, or crumbled bacon for a savory twist. You can also incorporate different cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. The possibilities are endless! Just like when you are exploring different muffin recipes, don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and ingredients. You might discover your new favorite cornbread variation.

Serving Suggestions

Cornbread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside chili, BBQ, soups, stews, or simply enjoy it on its own with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to collard greens or black-eyed peas.

Slice of cornbread with butter

Cornbread FAQ

1. Can I use frozen corn? While fresh corn is recommended, frozen corn can be substituted. Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the batter.
2. How do I store leftover cornbread? Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze cornbread? Yes, cornbread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. My cornbread is dry, what did I do wrong? Overmixing the batter or overbaking can lead to dry cornbread. Be careful not to overmix, and start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. For reviews and insights on gluten-free baking, check out our gluten free muffin recipe reviews.
6. What type of cornmeal should I use? Fine or medium grind cornmeal works best for this recipe.
7. Can I add other ingredients to the batter? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins, such as jalapenos, bacon, or cheese.

Cornbread served with chili

Conclusion

This cornbread recipe with corn is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this Southern classic. The addition of fresh corn kernels elevates the flavor and texture, creating a truly memorable cornbread experience. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of this delightful treat! For more baking tips, explore our article on How to choose the right type of baking pan for different recipes. And if you’re interested in exploring more baking options, consider reviewing the innovative approach of review of One Bake Two Ways. Also, for those seeking the perfect tools for their baking endeavors, our comprehensive best muffin tins for baking reviews will be an invaluable resource.