Delicious Corn Bread Recipe – Perfect for Any Meal!
If you’re looking for a slice of Appalachian culture that can be enjoyed in every corner of the world, look no further than this Appalachian Corn Bread recipe. This classic Southern staple has been perfected by generations of Appalachian families who have lived amidst the mountains and valleys of this rugged region for hundreds of years. And now, you have the chance to join in and make your own version, right in the comfort of your own home.
Appalachian cornbread is different from other kinds of cornbread in that it is often made with little or no sugar, salt, or flour. Instead, it relies on good old fashioned cornmeal for its flavor and texture, helping it to hold up to even the heartiest fall soups or winter stews. This hearty bread has been a staple in the diets of West Virginia’s coal miners and Virginia’s farmers for generations—it’s truly a food that has stood the test of time.
With this recipe, making easy Appalachian-style cornbread at home has never been simpler. All you need is some basic pantry staples like cornmeal, baking powder, eggs, milk, and bacon grease or oil—you’ll be well on your way to making homemade bread that would make even my granny proud.
But why stop there? This recipe is supremely versatile when it comes to variations and substitutions—use white cornmeal instead of yellow for a more traditional Appalachian texture or add a tablespoon of creamed corn to spread even more flavor throughout each slice. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe offers endless opportunities for creativity while still preserving the core simplicity that defines good cornbread.
So invite some friends over (or keep the loaf all to yourself—we won’t judge), and make a batch of classic Southern-style cornbread tonight. With its hearty-yet-tender crumb and rustic charm, this recipe is sure to please everyone around the table. It’s not just any old bread—it’s a taste of Appalachia in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Appalachian Corn Bread Recipe
Are you looking for a classic southern dish that will transport you to the heart of the Appalachian Mountains with each bite? Look no further than this Appalachian-style cornbread recipe.
What sets this recipe apart from others is its use of bacon grease instead of corn oil. The bacon drippings add a savory flavor and give the bread an irresistible golden crust. Plus, it’s an easy way to reduce waste by using leftover bacon grease.
This cornbread recipe is also incredibly versatile – perfect for serving as a side to a warm bowl of soup or chili, or as the centerpiece at a summer barbecue. And because it’s made in a cast iron skillet, it’s both rustic and elegant – a true testament to traditional Appalachian cooking.
But what really makes this cornbread recipe special is how it brings people together. In the Appalachian Mountains, food is not just something we eat, but something that binds us as a community. Whether sharing it with friends and family or enjoying it on your own, this dish will remind you of the joy of slow living, and the importance of hospitality and simplicity in our busy lives.
So go ahead and try making this delicious cornbread recipe. It’s time to slow down, put on some Appalachian music, and savor the taste of tradition.
Ingredient List
Below are the ingredients you will need to gather before starting your Appalachian Corn Bread recipe. Most of the items on this list are pantry staples, so you might already have them at home.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups (187.5g) of cornmeal (preferably white)
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (8g) of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon (6g) of salt
- ¼ cup (60g) of sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) of milk
- ¼ cup (60ml) of bacon grease or corn oil
Note that the above ingredient amounts make one batch of corn bread. If you want to make more, simply double the ingredients.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Skillet
Preheat the oven to 425°F. While waiting for the oven to heat, place a 9-inch cast-iron skillet or a 9-by-9-inch baking dish in the oven, this guarantees a crisp crust!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cornmeal preferably white, ¼ cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once thoroughly mixed, create a well in the center.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, beat together 2 eggs, and then add 1 and ¼ cups of milk, and 4 tablespoons (½ stick) of bacon grease or melted butter to it. Mix everything nicely.
Step 4: Combine Both Mixtures into One
Pour the wet ingredients mixture into the dry ingredients mixture. Presumably using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, stir everything together until it becomes a thick batter.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Hot Skillet
Carefully remove your hot skillet from the oven using potholders for protection. Pour your batter into your hot skillet or baking dish to spread it out evenly.
Step 6: Place in Oven
When done pouring in the batter, place it into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until you see golden brown edges and top!
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Remove from oven when ready and place on a cooling rack for at least five minutes before serving.
This recipe is perfect because you can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Simply reheat pieces in an oven set at around 300°F.
Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Appalachian Corn Bread Recipe features simple and easy-to-find ingredients that can be adjusted to fit individual tastes. Here are some substitutions and variations to help you customize this classic recipe:
– Sugar: If you prefer sweeter cornbread, increase the sugar to ½ cup or more. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar to add natural sweetness.
– Flour: While all-purpose flour is used in this recipe, you can use self-rising flour instead. However, if you use self-rising flour, omit baking powder and salt.
– Cornmeal: This recipe calls for yellow cornmeal, but you can also use white cornmeal or a mixture of both. Stone-ground cornmeal will give the cornbread a coarser texture than regular cornmeal.
– Milk: The recipe calls for whole milk, but you can also use buttermilk or skim milk. If using buttermilk, add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to the dry ingredients.
– Bacon Grease: Bacon grease adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture to the cornbread, but it’s not essential. You can substitute melted butter, vegetable oil, or corn oil for bacon grease.
– Cast Iron Skillet: While a cast iron skillet is traditional for making cornbread, you can use a baking dish or muffin tin instead. However, don’t skip preheating your baking dish or tin before adding batter.
– Vegetarian/Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, substitute bacon grease with vegetable oil or melted butter. To make it vegan-friendly, use non-dairy milk and replace eggs with flax eggs or other suitable egg replacements.
With these simple substitutions and variations, you can create a wide range of flavors and textures for your Appalachian Corn Bread Recipe. Experiment with different combinations until you find your favorite version.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving Appalachian Corn Bread, there are a multitude of flavor profiles that pair perfectly with this traditional dish. As a classic Southern staple, cornbread has been enjoyed with everything from barbecued meats and beans to fresh greens and salads.
For a hearty and satisfying meal, try pairing your cornbread with a hot bowl of pinto beans – a traditional Appalachian combination that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. And for an even more authentic experience, be sure to serve your beans and cornbread in cast iron cookware.
If you’re looking for something on the sweeter side, serve your cornbread alongside slow-cooked sweet potatoes or a slice of apple pie for the ultimate comfort food experience. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try topping your cornbread with some chow chow – a type of Appalachian-style relish made from pickled vegetables.
But perhaps the most classic way to enjoy Appalachian Corn Bread is paired with a warm bowl of soup. In West Virginia, it’s common to pair cornbread with a hearty soup made from pinto beans and ham hocks – known as “soup beans”. This filling dish is perfect for cold winter nights when you need something to warm you up.
No matter how you choose to serve your cornbread, be sure to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find the pairing that works best for you. With its versatility and delicious taste, this traditional Appalachian dish is perfect for any occasion – from casual family dinners to elegant holiday meals.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about Appalachian Corn Bread is that it can easily be made ahead of time, stored, then reheated later for a fresh and warm taste.
To make this in advance, prepare the batter and pour it into the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking it. This will ensure that it bakes evenly and perfectly.
If you’ve already baked your cornbread and have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container. It can last up to two days at room temperature or five days in the refrigerator. Heat the bread up for a quick snack by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds or until heated through.
For longer-term storage, wrap the cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cornbread will keep well for up to three months. To reheat frozen cornbread, let it come to room temperature first, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Remember that reheating too often can dry out your cornbread, so don’t forget to make sure you’re storing and reheating properly. Following these tips will help you enjoy your delicious Appalachian Corn Bread long after its first serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
Just like any baked good, baking the perfect appalachian corn bread may require a little bit of finesse. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that you get the most delicious and authentic end result possible.
Firstly, it is essential to use the right type of cornmeal. The ideal type of cornmeal for this recipe is a medium-grind, stone-ground variety. Many people prefer yellow cornmeal for making cornbread, but white cornmeal can also be used. It is important not to use finely ground cornmeal as it will produce a dry and crumbly texture.
Another key component to getting the perfect appalachian-style cornbread is mastering the balance between wet and dry ingredients. If the batter is too dry, the resulting cornbread will be tough and flavorless so make sure to measure your liquid ingredients accurately. Too much moisture could lead to soggy consistency. So make sure to be on point with measuring your liquid ingredients all the time.
Having the proper oven temperature is crucial in achieving an evenly cooked batch of cornbread. Preheat your oven before adding the dough and make sure that it reaches 375°F. Consider reheating or fluctuations in temperature while cooking in batches of large quantities could have negative impacts on what might have been great outcomes.
Although bacon grease gives a lot of character to Southern-style dishes including this one, if you don’t eat pork or simply prefer not to use it for health reasons, try substituting vegetable oil at a 1:1 ratio for a similar effect in frying your respective skillets or pans before putting them inside your preheated oven.
Lastly, always remember that practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t come out perfect – keep trying till you master this recipe.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Appalachian Corn Bread Recipe is a true masterpiece of Southern cuisine. Its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients and traditional preparation methods make it a beloved staple in the Appalachian Mountains and beyond. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, cast-iron cooked or slow-cooked in a crockpot, this recipe can be customized to your taste preferences.
With all of its rich history and regional charm, preparing and enjoying a slice of Appalachian Corn Bread is like taking a culinary journey through the heart and soul of America. So why not try it out? Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and take a trip to the mountains with the first bite of this delectable cornbread.
One thing is certain, you won’t regret making this recipe. So whether you’re hosting a barbecue with friends or enjoying an intimate dinner with loved ones, this iconic dish is sure to impress!
Appalachian Corn Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4-1/2 cup corn oil or 1/4-1/2 cup bacon grease
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar, heaping
Instructions
- Put corn oil or bacon grease in a 6” iron skillet and put your skillet in the oven to preheat to 400 degrees. While it's preheating, slightly beat eggs into milk.
- Sift together the corn meal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Mix the dry and wet ingredients together.
- When the oil/oven is preheated, pour the oil or grease into the mixture, leaving a layer in the pan. Stir quickly. Pour batter in the pan, and bake for about 20 minutes or so, until when you stick a toothpick in it, it comes out clean.
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Steven is a chef by heritage, so it’s no wonder why baking is such a big part of who he is. To share his passion for all things sweet, he created cookiesncrepes.com. It’s the perfect platform to indulge in delicious treats, all with a sprinkle of his signature flare.