The Ultimate Gluten Free Cornbread Recipe
Looking for a simple yet satisfying side dish? This gluten free cornbread recipe strikes the perfect balance between subtle sweetness and a delightfully soft, crumbly texture. It’s a versatile addition to almost any meal, be it a hearty soup, a summer BBQ, or even alongside our Slow Cooker Ratatouille. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free when made with 100% cornmeal!
Craving a dairy-free or egg-free version? We’ve got you covered! And for those busy days, transform this recipe into gluten-free cornbread muffins – the perfect on-the-go snack! If you love baking muffins, be sure to check out our recipe for Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Muffins!
What Makes This Gluten Free Cornbread Recipe Special?
This recipe is a long-time favorite and a staple in many homes. Its simplicity and adaptability are key to its enduring appeal. Over the years, many have shared their successful tweaks: using granulated sugar instead of honey, regular milk in place of buttermilk or yogurt, and even substituting butter with shortening, coconut oil, or vegetable oil. The result? Delicious cornbread every single time.
This cornbread bakes quickly, especially in a cast iron pan known for its excellent heat conduction. The pan ensures beautifully browned sides and bottom. If you’re new to gluten-free cooking, our The Best Gluten-Free Banana Bread recipe is a great place to start to learn some basic gluten-free baking techniques!
Corn, being naturally gluten-free, forms the base of this recipe. Cornmeal, simply ground yellow corn, offers a naturally gluten-free alternative to wheat-based breads.
To ensure your cornbread remains gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free cornmeal like Bob’s Red Mill, which guarantees it’s free from cross-contamination. It’s important to note that many cornbread recipes include wheat flour, making them unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. Our recipe uses only cornmeal, making it naturally gluten-free.
Choosing the Best Pan for Your Gluten Free Cornbread
Cast iron skillet? Cake pan? Muffin tin? The choice is yours! This versatile recipe shines in various containers. A cast iron skillet is highly recommended for its quick cooking time, crispy edges, and lovely color. If you want to pair it with something like our Gluten Free Chicken Parmesan, the cast iron skillet’s crispy edges can provide a delightful contrast to the chicken’s tenderness.
For a less crunchy edge, a 9-inch round cake pan is an excellent alternative. Or, try baking these into muffins using a standard 12-cup muffin tin. For muffins, line the wells with greaseproof paper liners and bake at 350°F for 18 minutes. They rise evenly without overflowing, resulting in perfectly portioned treats.
How to Make the Best Gluten Free Cornbread
Ready to bake a delicious, perfectly textured gluten free cornbread? Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions for a guaranteed success!
- Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grease either an 8-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch cast iron skillet with unsalted butter. Set the prepared pan aside. A well-greased pan ensures your cornbread releases easily and bakes evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of coarsely ground yellow cornmeal, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a perfect rise.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add 1 ½ cups of plain yogurt (at room temperature), 4 tablespoons of melted and cooled unsalted butter, 1 large egg (at room temperature, beaten), and 4 tablespoons of honey into the well.
- Mix the Batter: Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in a tough cornbread.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan or cast-iron skillet. Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Keep a close eye on it, especially if using a cast iron pan, as it may bake faster.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
Tips for Gluten-Free Cornbread Flour Variations:
- Corn Flour Variation: For a slightly different texture, replace half of the coarsely ground yellow cornmeal by weight with an equal amount of corn flour. This results in a smoother crumb.
- All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour Variation: You can also substitute half of the cornmeal by weight with a high-quality gluten free all-purpose flour blend. The Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend is a great choice for baking. This will create a softer, less crumbly cornbread.
Enjoy your delicious homemade gluten free cornbread! It’s perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack.
The Ultimate Gluten Free Cornbread Recipe
Welcome to your new go-to gluten free cornbread recipe! This recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s an ideal side for everything from hearty soups to summer BBQs. Best of all, it’s naturally gluten-free when you stick to using cornmeal without added flours.
Craving a dairy-free or egg-free version? We’ve got you covered! And if you’re always on the move, transform this recipe into delicious gluten free cornbread muffins for a portable treat.
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Gluten Free Cornbread Ingredients
- ▢ 2 cups (264 g) coarsely ground yellow cornmeal, (See Recipe Notes)
- ▢ 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ▢ 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ▢ 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ▢ 1 ½ cups (340 g) plain yogurt, at room temperature (can substitute an equal amount of buttermilk or half sour cream/half whole milk)
- ▢ 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ▢ 1 (50 g (weighed out of shell)) egg, at room temperature, beaten
- ▢ 4 tablespoons (84 g) honey
Nutritional Information for Gluten Free Cornbread
Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional benefits of this gluten free cornbread recipe, emphasizing its gluten-free advantages and overall health profile:
- Naturally Gluten-Free: This recipe relies on cornmeal, a naturally gluten-free grain, making it safe for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Fiber-Rich: Cornmeal provides a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Balanced Macronutrients: Each slice offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, contributing to sustained energy and satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cornmeal contains essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium.
Per Serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 271kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 41mg
- Sodium: 565mg
- Potassium: 214mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 11g
- Vitamin A: 250IU
- Vitamin C: 0.3mg
- Calcium: 122mg
- Iron: 1mg
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Gluten Free Cornbread
Achieving the ideal gluten free cornbread is easy with these expert tips and customizable variations. Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions or simply want to experiment, here’s how to make this recipe your own:
Must-Know Tips for Gluten Free Cornbread Success
- Choose the Right Cornmeal: Ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Cornmeal is a reliable option.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature yogurt and eggs helps create a smooth, even batter for optimal texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent a tough cornbread.
- Baking Pan Matters: A cast iron skillet delivers a beautifully browned crust, while a cake pan offers a softer edge. For muffins, use a standard 12-cup muffin tin with greaseproof liners.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cornbread is ready.
Gluten Free Cornbread Variations
- Cornmeal and Corn Flour Blend: For a smoother texture, replace half of the coarsely ground cornmeal with an equal amount of corn flour. This results in a less crumbly cornbread that stays fresh longer.
- All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute half of the cornmeal with a high-quality all-purpose gluten-free flour blend. This version will have a finer crumb and lighter color but less of the characteristic cornmeal “bite.”
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free Gluten Free Cornbread: Replace unsalted butter with dairy-free butter sticks (reduce salt by half) and use plain dairy-free yogurt. A mix of half plain dairy-free yogurt and half unsweetened almond milk works well as a buttermilk substitute.
- Egg-Free Gluten Free Cornbread: Substitute the egg with a “chia egg” (1 tablespoon ground chia seeds + 1 tablespoon lukewarm water, mixed and allowed to gel).
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Toppings: Enjoy warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Sweet and Tangy: Spread with strawberry or raspberry jelly for a delightful twist.
- Decadent Dessert: Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Meal Accompaniment: Serve alongside soups, stews, chili, or BBQ, using it to soak up every last bit of flavor.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store cooled cornbread in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze for longer storage, wrapping tightly. If using the all-purpose gluten-free flour blend, the cornbread will maintain its quality longer in the freezer.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls – A set of good mixing bowls is essential for prepping ingredients.
Find Mixing Bowls on Amazon - Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Find Measuring Cups and Spoons on Amazon - Baking Sheets – Perfect for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and more.
Find Baking Sheets on Amazon - Whisks – For whipping air into batters and sauces.
Find Whisks on Amazon - Spatulas – Essential for mixing, folding, and scraping bowls.
Find Spatulas on Amazon - Food Processors – Ideal for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients quickly.
Find Food Processors on Amazon - Saucepans – A versatile tool for making sauces, heating liquids, and more.
Find Saucepans on Amazon - Chef’s Knives – A sharp chef’s knife is essential for all your chopping needs.
Find Chef’s Knives on Amazon - Cutting Boards – Protect your countertops while prepping ingredients.
Find Cutting Boards on Amazon
[…] Blue cornmeal isn’t just about aesthetics; it also offers a slightly different nutritional profile and a distinctive taste compared to yellow cornmeal. Its slightly nutty, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with the touch of sweetness in these muffins. For another way to use cornmeal, try our Gluten-Free Cornbread Recipe. […]