### The Best Baked Cornbread Recipe for Holiday Gatherings

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, freshly made baked cornbread recipe. This classic dish is a staple in many household……

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, freshly made baked cornbread recipe. This classic dish is a staple in many households, especially during the holiday season. Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving feast or a casual family dinner, a well-made baked cornbread recipe can elevate your meal to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create the perfect baked cornbread recipe, along with tips and tricks to ensure your cornbread is moist, flavorful, and irresistible.

#### Ingredients for the Ultimate Baked Cornbread Recipe

To start with, you'll need the following ingredients for a traditional baked cornbread recipe:

- 1 cup of cornmeal

- 1 cup of all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar

- 1 tablespoon of baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon of salt

- 1 cup of buttermilk

- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted

- 2 large eggs

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The cornmeal provides that quintessential cornbread taste, while the flour adds structure. The sugar offers a touch of sweetness, and the buttermilk ensures a moist crumb. Melted butter adds richness, and the eggs help bind everything together.

#### Step-by-Step Instructions for a Flawless Baked Cornbread Recipe

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or a cast-iron skillet with butter or non-stick spray.

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well-blended.

3. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs. Make sure the butter is not too hot, as it could cook the eggs.

4. **Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cornbread.

5. **Pour and Bake**: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish or skillet. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. **Cool and Serve**: Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.

#### Tips and Variations for Your Baked Cornbread Recipe

- **Add-ins**: Feel free to customize your baked cornbread recipe by adding ingredients like shredded cheese, chopped jalapeños, or corn kernels. These additions can add extra flavor and texture to your cornbread.

- **Sweet or Savory**: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, you can increase the sugar to 1/2 cup. For a more savory version, consider reducing the sugar or omitting it altogether.

- **Gluten-Free Option**: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free baked cornbread recipe.

- **Storage**: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze cornbread for longer storage; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

#### Why This Baked Cornbread Recipe is Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

The holidays are all about bringing people together, and food plays a central role in these celebrations. This baked cornbread recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to hearty stews, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. Plus, its warm, comforting flavors are sure to please guests of all ages.

In conclusion, mastering this baked cornbread recipe will undoubtedly earn you rave reviews from family and friends. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you'll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. So why not give it a try at your next gathering and experience the magic of homemade cornbread?