Best Large Batch Cornbread Recipe for Family Gatherings

When it comes to feeding a crowd, nothing beats a large batch cornbread recipe. This classic comfort food is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and an……

When it comes to feeding a crowd, nothing beats a large batch cornbread recipe. This classic comfort food is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and any event where you need to serve a lot of people. Our recipe ensures that you get a moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured cornbread every time.

### Ingredients You Will Need

To make this large batch cornbread recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 cups of cornmeal

- 4 cups of all-purpose flour

- 2 cups of granulated sugar

- 8 teaspoons of baking powder

- 2 teaspoons of salt

- 4 cups of milk

- 8 large eggs

- 2 cups of melted butter (or vegetable oil)

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cornbread will cook evenly.

2. **Prepare Your Baking Pan**: Grease a large baking pan (or two smaller ones) with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the cornbread from sticking and make it easier to remove once it's baked.

3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is not too hot, as you don't want to cook the eggs.

5. **Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cornbread tough.

6. **Pour and Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. **Cool and Serve**: Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting it into squares. Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.

### Tips for the Perfect Cornbread

- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Make sure your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can result in flat, dense cornbread.

- **Don’t Overmix**: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cornbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

- **Add Extra Flavor**: For a twist, you can add ingredients like shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or corn kernels to the batter.

- **Storage**: Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

### Serving Suggestions

This large batch cornbread recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

- **Chili**: Cornbread is a classic side for a hearty bowl of chili. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory, spicy flavors of the chili.

- **Barbecue**: Serve cornbread alongside your favorite barbecue dishes, such as ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken.

- **Soups and Stews**: A slice of cornbread is perfect for soaking up the broth from soups and stews.

### Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser

This large batch cornbread recipe is designed to be both delicious and easy to make. The combination of cornmeal and flour gives it the perfect texture, while the sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. The use of melted butter ensures a rich flavor that everyone will love.

Whether you're hosting a large family gathering or attending a potluck, this cornbread is sure to be a hit. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So next time you need to feed a crowd, give this large batch cornbread recipe a try—you won't be disappointed!