Why You’ll Love this Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe
Whether you’re a cornbread enthusiast or just looking to elevate your usual side dish, you’ll absolutely love this Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread recipe.
It’s the perfect blend of savory and sweet, with crispy bacon adding a delightful crunch to each bite. The buttermilk keeps the texture moist and fluffy, making it irresistible.
I can’t tell you how many compliments I’ve received when serving this at gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, and it bakes quickly, so you won’t be waiting long to enjoy it.
Trust me, this cornbread will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients of Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread
Let’s plunge into the delicious world of Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread. If you’re like me and believe that bacon makes everything better, you’re in for a treat. This recipe combines the classic comfort of cornbread with the savory goodness of crispy bacon, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re serving it with chili, BBQ, or just slathering it with butter for a snack, this cornbread is bound to impress. So, ready to gather your ingredients?
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 1/3 cups cornmeal
- 2/3 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 dash salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
Now, while those ingredients are pretty straightforward, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First off, using fresh buttermilk is key to getting that rich, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar and the saltiness of the bacon.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can always make a quick substitute by combining milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes. Also, don’t skimp on the bacon drippings when you’re mixing everything together; that’s where a lot of the flavor comes from!
And hey, if you find yourself with extra bacon, you can always cook up a few more slices to nibble on while you wait for your cornbread to bake. Just saying, it’s a win-win situation.
How to Make Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread
Alright, let’s plunge into making that scrumptious Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread. First things first, you’ll want to get your bacon game on. Grab 2 slices of bacon and chop them up into bite-sized pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook those little morsels until they’re nice and crispy. It’s like a mini breakfast party in your pan.
Once they’re golden and fragrant, drain them on some paper towels to soak up that extra grease—because nobody likes a soggy bacon. But don’t toss those bacon drippings just yet; you’ll need about 3 tablespoons for the batter later.
Now, in a large bowl, combine 1 1/3 cups of cornmeal, 2/3 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and a dash of salt. This dry mixture is the foundation of your cornbread, so take a moment to admire the colors and textures.
In a separate medium bowl, crack open 2 large eggs and whisk them together with 1 cup of buttermilk and those reserved bacon drippings. It’s a bit of a funky combo, but trust me, it’s where the magic happens.
Now, pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and stir just until everything is combined. You don’t want to overmix—nobody likes tough cornbread.
Once your batter is all mixed up and smelling divine, pour it into a lightly greased 8x8x2 baking pan. You’ll want to spread it out evenly, but don’t fuss too much; it’ll find its way.
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees while you wait, and then slide that pan in for about 22 to 24 minutes. Keep an eye on it until it turns a beautiful golden color. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making you wonder why you didn’t make this sooner.
Once it’s done, let it cool for a few moments, then cut yourself a slice (or two, no judgment here) and enjoy the delightful marriage of cornbread and bacon. Who knew a simple recipe could bring so much joy?
Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread Substitutions & Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basics of making Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread, you might want to get creative with substitutions and variations.
For a twist, try using cheese—cheddar or pepper jack adds a delicious flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap half the flour for whole wheat flour.
You can even replace buttermilk with yogurt or sour cream for a tangy touch. Want a little sweetness? Toss in some corn kernels or diced jalapeños for added zest.
Don’t forget, you can experiment with different herbs like chives or thyme to elevate the taste even further!
What to Serve with Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread
When considering what to serve with Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread, think about complementing its savory, smoky flavors.
I love pairing it with a hearty chili or a rich, slow-cooked stew; the cornbread soaks up the delicious juices perfectly. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.
If you’re feeling indulgent, a side of creamy mac and cheese can elevate the meal. Finally, don’t forget some honey or butter for spreading—it adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the cornbread’s savory notes.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings!
Additional Tips & Notes
A few simple tips can enhance your Bacon Buttermilk Cornbread experience. First, don’t skip the bacon drippings; they add incredible flavor.
If you want a little kick, try adding some chopped jalapeños or shredded cheese to the batter. Make sure your oven is preheated for even baking—this cornbread loves that heat!
I also recommend letting it cool slightly before cutting; it helps the texture set. Finally, serve it warm with a pat of butter on top for a delightful treat.
Trust me, these little tweaks can take your cornbread from good to unforgettable! Enjoy your baking!