Cornbread is a staple in many kitchens, particularly in the Southern United States, where it’s a beloved comfort food. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to many hearty meals. While traditional cornbread recipes call for cornmeal, using all-purpose flour is a convenient alternative that produces a delicious and fluffy bread. In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect all-purpose flour cornbread. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. So, preheat your oven and let’s get baking!
Making cornbread with all-purpose flour is a quick and easy process. In a large bowl, you’ll whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and oil. Then, add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving and enjoy a delicious, fluffy and versatile bread that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
Cornbread Step-by-Step
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Cornmeal | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Vegetable oil | 1/4 cup |
| Instructions |
|---|
| Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round or square baking pan. |
| In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. |
| In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and oil. |
| Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. |
| Pour the batter into the prepared pan. |
| Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread comes out clean. |
Nutritional Information (per 1 slice serving, 1/9 of recipe): Calories: 200 Total Fat: 11g (Saturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0g) Cholesterol: 20mg Sodium: 300mg Total Carbohydrates: 25g (Dietary Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 5g) Protein: 4g Vitamin D: 0% Calcium: 8% Iron: 6% Potassium: 2%
Introduction to All-Purpose Flour Cornbread
Cornbread is a staple of American cuisine and a staple dish of Southern cooking. It is a type of quick bread that is made from cornmeal, flour, sugar, and other ingredients. While traditional cornbread is made with cornmeal, many recipes call for the use of all-purpose flour.
All-purpose flour cornbread is a versatile and convenient option for those who do not have cornmeal on hand or prefer a softer texture in their cornbread. The use of all-purpose flour in cornbread results in a lighter and softer crumb, while still maintaining the delicious corn flavor.
Whether it’s served as a side dish, topped with honey or used to soak up stews and soups, all-purpose flour cornbread is a crowd-pleaser.
Why Make Cornbread With All Purpose Flour? Here’s 9 Reasons
All-purpose flour cornbread is a delicious, easy-to-make, and versatile dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a great place to start.
- Texture and Consistency: The texture of cornbread made with all-purpose flour is fluffy and soft with a slightly crumbly consistency. The bread has a light and airy feel, making it a great addition to a hearty meal.
- Flavor Profile: The flavor of this cornbread is sweet, slightly nutty, and has a delicate crumb. The addition of sugar and all-purpose flour gives this bread a distinct flavor that sets it apart from traditional cornbread made with only cornmeal.
- Versatility: All-purpose flour cornbread can be enjoyed on its own, as a side dish to soup or chili, or as the base of a sweet or savory bread pudding. The bread’s neutral flavor and texture make it a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
- Ease of Preparation: This cornbread recipe is easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients. The bread is also quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Aesthetics: All-purpose flour cornbread has a beautiful golden brown color and a slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior. The bread has a rustic, homey appearance that will make it a hit at any meal.
- Pairing Options: This cornbread pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a great addition to any meal. Try it with a bowl of chili, a hearty stew, or as a side to roasted meats and vegetables.
- Nutritional Value: Cornbread made with all-purpose flour is a good source of carbohydrates and provides a modest amount of protein and fiber. The bread is also low in saturated fat and contains no trans fats, making it a healthier option than some other baked goods.
- Shelf Life: All-purpose flour cornbread can be stored for several days at room temperature, and it also freezes well. This makes it a great option for meal prep or as a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.
- Price and Availability: Cornbread made with all-purpose flour is affordable and easy to find, as all of the ingredients are widely available at most grocery stores. This dish is a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank.
Cornbread Using Different Flours
| Flour Type | Texture | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Light and tender | Classic, traditional cornbread with a slightly sweet taste |
| Cornmeal | Coarse and crumbly | Heartier, more rustic cornbread with a stronger corn flavor |
| Self-Rising Flour | Light and fluffy | Softer, lighter cornbread with a slightly less sweet taste |
| Whole Wheat Flour | Dense and chewy | Healthier version of cornbread with a nutty, earthy flavor |
| Gluten-Free Flour | Coarse and gritty | Gluten-free option with a more pronounced grainy texture |
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (140 g) cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) oil
These ingredients are combined to create a simple and delicious all-purpose flour cornbread that can be enjoyed as a side dish or topped with your favorite spreads. The use of all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt creates a balanced flavor and texture, while the milk, egg, and oil provide moisture and richness.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9-inch (23 cm) round or square baking pan
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Toothpick
With these simple tools, you can easily make a delicious all-purpose flour cornbread in your own kitchen. From mixing the ingredients to baking the bread, the equipment needed for this recipe is basic and can be found in most kitchens.
Baking Tips
- Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough and dense cornbread.
- Use fresh ingredients. Old baking powder or expired eggs can negatively impact the taste and texture of your cornbread.
- Grease your pan well. This will prevent the cornbread from sticking to the pan and make it easier to remove.
- Test the cornbread with a toothpick to ensure it is fully baked. If the toothpick comes out clean, it’s ready to be removed from the oven.
- Let the cornbread cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the bread to firm up and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Cheese: Add shredded cheese to the batter for a delicious, cheesy cornbread.
- Herbs: Add fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Jalapenos: Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Honey: Replace the sugar in the recipe with honey for a slightly sweeter and more flavorful cornbread.
- Corn: Add fresh or canned corn to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Bacon: Cook and crumble bacon and add it to the batter for a bacon-y cornbread.
- Maple syrup: Replace the oil in the recipe with maple syrup for a unique, sweet flavor.
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Sweet Cornbread | A sweeter version of cornbread made by adding sugar or honey to the batter. |
| Cheese Cornbread | Cornbread that has shredded cheese mixed into the batter. |
| Buttermilk Cornbread | Cornbread made with buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier flavor. |
| Herb Cornbread | Cornbread that has herbs such as basil, rosemary, or thyme mixed into the batter. |
| Spicy Cornbread | Cornbread that has spices such as cayenne pepper or jalapeno peppers mixed into the batter. |
| Mexican-style Cornbread | Cornbread that is made with cornmeal, cheese, and jalapeno peppers, often served as a side dish with Mexican cuisine. |
| Southern-style Cornbread | Traditional, unsweetened cornbread that is a staple in Southern cuisine. |
| Native American-style Cornbread | Cornbread that is made with cornmeal and often sweetened with honey, a staple in Native American cuisine. |
| Gluten-free Cornbread | Cornbread made with gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities. |
| Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread | Cornbread that is baked in a cast iron skillet for a crispy crust. |
Serving Suggestions
- With Butter: Serve your cornbread warm with a generous pat of butter for a classic and comforting combination.
- With Soup or Chili: Cornbread is a classic side dish for soups and chili. Its savory flavor complements these hearty dishes perfectly.
- With Honey Butter: Mix together butter and honey to create a sweet and delicious spread that pairs perfectly with your cornbread.
- As a Breakfast Treat: Serve your cornbread with butter and jam for a delicious breakfast treat.
- As a Dessert: Serve your cornbread warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a sweet and satisfying dessert.
These are just a few of the many ways to serve your all-purpose flour cornbread.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Store your cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat your cornbread, wrap it in foil and place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s warm and crispy on the outside. You can also microwave your cornbread for 15 to 20 seconds per slice.
Using Different Types of Cornmeal
The type of cornmeal used in cornbread recipes can greatly affect the outcome of the dish. Whether you choose fine, medium, or coarse cornmeal, each option will result in a unique texture and flavor in your cornbread.
Fine cornmeal, for instance, creates a smoother, finer crumb that gives the bread a delicate texture. This type of cornmeal is ideal for those who prefer a tender, cake-like cornbread.
Medium cornmeal, on the other hand, offers a slight crunch and a bit more texture than fine cornmeal. This type of cornmeal is perfect for those who prefer a cornbread that is not too cakey but still tender.
Coarse cornmeal, meanwhile, provides a crunchier texture and a more robust corn flavor. This type of cornmeal is ideal for those who love a heartier, more rustic cornbread.
Adding Cheese
Cheese is a popular addition to cornbread, lending a tangy and rich flavor to the dish. When using cheese in cornbread, it’s best to opt for a sharp, well-flavored cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby-Jack.
Shredding the cheese before incorporating it into the batter helps it distribute evenly and provides a more consistent texture throughout the cornbread. Some recipes suggest stirring in a full cup of shredded cheese, while others call for only a half cup or so.
Experimenting with the amount of cheese you use can help you achieve the perfect balance of cheese flavor and texture in your cornbread.
Using Different Types of Milk
Milk is an important ingredient in cornbread, helping to provide the liquid needed for the batter to come together. In addition to regular milk, buttermilk is a popular alternative that can add a distinct tangy flavor to the dish.
Buttermilk is made from cultured milk and is known for its slightly sour taste, which can enhance the taste of cornbread. When using buttermilk in place of regular milk, it’s important to note that it can also have a thinner consistency, so you may need to adjust the amount used in the recipe.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can also make a substitute by adding lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk. Regardless of which type of milk you use, it’s important to measure carefully to ensure that your cornbread comes out perfectly.
Nutrition Information
A serving of all-purpose flour cornbread, made with traditional ingredients, provides approximately:
- 200-250 calories
- 4-5g of protein
- 10-12g of fat, including 1-2g of saturated fat
- 28-35g of carbohydrates, including 3-5g of sugar
- 1-2g of fiber
It’s also a source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin B6.
It’s important to note that the exact nutritional information will vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you’re looking to make a healthier version of cornbread, you can try using reduced-fat milk, cutting back on sugar, or using a whole grain flour blend.
Making Savory Cornbread
Experimenting with different ingredients is one of the best ways to elevate your cornbread game.
The type of cornmeal you use, whether it be fine, medium, or coarse, can greatly impact the texture of your final product. A coarser cornmeal will result in a denser, crunchier cornbread, while a fine cornmeal will result in a more tender and delicate crumb.
Cheese is another ingredient that can transform the flavor profile of your cornbread. Adding shredded cheese to the batter before baking creates a cheesy, savory treat that pairs well with chili, soups, and stews.
Milk is also an ingredient that can be swapped out for variations. Using buttermilk instead of regular milk adds a tangy flavor to the cornbread, while also making it slightly more tender.
Sweet or Spicy Variations
It’s important to consider the different variations that can be made to traditional all-purpose flour cornbread. The type of cornmeal used can greatly impact the texture of the final product, ranging from fine to coarse.
For a cheesy twist, adding shredded cheese to the batter can result in a savory and flavorful cornbread. The type of milk used can also have an impact, with buttermilk adding a tangy flavor.
For those who enjoy a more savory taste, herbs, spices, and vegetables can be added to the batter. Finally, for a touch of sweetness or spice, ingredients such as honey, maple syrup, or jalapeno peppers can be added to the cornbread.
The possibilities are endless, making all-purpose flour cornbread a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking.
Cultural Variations of Cornbread
As a food critic in a food magazine, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting variations of classic dishes, and cornbread is no exception.
One of the things I love about cornbread is its versatility – there are so many different variations to choose from! From the traditional Southern-style cornbread, to Mexican cornbread, to Native American-style cornbread, there’s a cornbread for everyone.
Mexican cornbread is a delicious variation that often includes ingredients such as jalapenos, cheese, and spices, giving it a bold, spicy flavor.
Meanwhile, Southern-style cornbread is typically made with a mix of cornmeal and flour and is often sweeter and crumblier.
Native American-style cornbread, on the other hand, is made with ingredients that have been used for centuries by indigenous cultures, such as blue cornmeal and honey.
Cornbread FAQs
- Can I make cornbread without sugar? Yes, you can make cornbread without sugar by leaving it out or substituting with a sugar alternative such as honey, maple syrup, or molasses.
- What is the difference between cornbread and corn muffins? Cornbread is a type of bread made with cornmeal, while corn muffins are a type of sweet muffin made with a cornmeal-based batter. Cornbread is usually baked in a square or round pan, while corn muffins are baked in a muffin tin.
- How do I make a gluten-free version of cornbread? To make gluten-free cornbread, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use a gluten-free cornbread mix.
- Can I use different types of oil in the recipe? Yes, you can use different types of oil in a cornbread recipe, such as vegetable, canola, or melted butter.
- What is the ideal consistency for cornbread batter? The ideal consistency for cornbread batter is thick but pourable, not too thick or too thin.
- How do I know when my cornbread is fully baked? You can tell when your cornbread is fully baked by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cornbread. If it comes out clean, it’s fully baked.
- Can I make cornbread in advance? Yes, you can make cornbread in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
- Can I freeze leftover cornbread? Yes, you can freeze leftover cornbread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or by storing it in an airtight container.
- How do I add flavor to my cornbread? You can add flavor to your cornbread by adding ingredients such as cheese, herbs, spices, honey, or bacon to the batter.
- Can I use a cast iron skillet to bake cornbread? Yes, you can use a cast iron skillet to bake cornbread. Cast iron skillets are great for making crispy and evenly-baked cornbread.
