Ultra Easy 30 Minute Cornbread

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through making ultra-easy cornbread in just 30 minutes. By using herb browned butter, you'll add a rich flavor to your cornbread that makes it stand out from store-bought options. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Cast Iron Pan

• Place a clean cast iron pan in a cold oven.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Make Herb Browned Butter

• In a small pot, melt ½ cup (113 grams) of unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns a dark brown color (not black).
• Once browned, remove from heat and add:
  • ½ bunch of fresh sage
  • ½ bunch of fresh thyme
• Stir and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, mix the following dry ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups (185 grams) all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (70 grams) granulated sugar
• 3.5 tablespoons (50 grams) light brown sugar
• 1 ¼ teaspoons (6 grams) fine sea salt
• 1 tablespoon (13 grams) baking powder
• 1 ¼ cups (175 grams) yellow cornmeal (use a finer grind for better texture)

Whisk the dry ingredients until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 2 whole eggs
• 1 ½ cups (350 milliliters) buttermilk

Remove the herbs from the browned butter and whisk the butter into the buttermilk mixture.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

• Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
• Whisk until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cornbread

• Take the hot cast iron pan from the oven and lightly grease it with spray oil.
• Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top if necessary.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Allow the cornbread to cool slightly in the pan, then transfer it to a cooling rack.
• Let it cool completely before slicing.

Additional Serving Suggestions

• Serve cornbread with traditional honey butter.
• For leftover cornbread:
  • Toast slices in butter for a delicious treat.
  • Cut into cubes, toss with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 30 minutes to make cornbread croutons.
  • Use stale cornbread in stuffing or bread pudding recipes.

Conclusion

Making homemade cornbread is simple and rewarding. With the addition of herb browned butter, you'll elevate the flavor significantly. Enjoy your cornbread fresh or repurpose any leftovers creatively! Happy baking!