Cornbread Recipe: A Versatile Treat for Every Palate

Without a doubt, one of the most popular desserts in Mexico is the traditional cornbread. Among so many versions that exist in the different corners of this country, it is difficult to choose which one is the best.

Cornbread is a delicious traditional dessert in many regions of Latin America, also attributed as a Mexican recipe. It is appreciated for its spongy texture and sweet corn flavor. This delicacy has conquered palates for generations and remains a favorite at family gatherings and festivities. Below, we will explore its origin, various versions, and offer you more detailed cornbread recipes so that you can prepare this exquisite bread at home.

Vegan Cornbread Recipe

Vegan cornbread is an excellent option for those who follow a plant-based diet. This version eliminates animal products without sacrificing the flavor or fluffy texture that characterizes this vegan dessert.

More Cornbread Recipes and Variations

Over the years, cornbread has evolved and various versions have been created to suit different dietary preferences and needs. Here are two popular variations: vegan cornbread and gluten-free cornbread.

Flourless Cornbread Recipe (Gluten-Free)

For those with gluten intolerance or who prefer to avoid it, gluten-free cornbread is a delicious and affordable option. This recipe uses alternative flours that maintain the traditional texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup corn flour
• 1/2 cup rice flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a loaf pan.
• In a blender, process the corn kernels with the coconut milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine the corn flour, rice flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
• Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow to cool before unmolding and serving.

Sweet Corn Bread Recipe

Sweet cornbread is a delicacy that stands out for its sugary flavor and fluffy texture. Unlike more neutral versions, this bread incorporates a higher amount of sugar and sometimes a touch of condensed plant milk, giving it a flavor profile more similar to that of a cake. Perfect to accompany a cup of coffee or tea, this bread is an excellent choice for those who enjoy sweet and comforting flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup condensed plant milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 chia eggs (3 tbsp chia + 6 tbsp water)
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.
• In a blender, blend the corn kernels, sugar, condensed plant milk, vegetable oil, chia eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
• Add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well until all ingredients are combined.
• Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow to cool before unmolding and serving.

No-Bake Cornbread Recipe

No-bake cornbread is a handy solution for those who don’t have access to a conventional oven or prefer a quicker preparation. This version is cooked in a large skillet or pot, using techniques such as a bain-marie or steaming to obtain a texture similar to that of baked bread. The result is a moist and delicious bread that retains the traditional flavor of corn.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 4 chia eggs
• 1 cup condensed milk
• 1/2 cup oil
• 1 cup corn flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions:

• In a blender, blend the corn kernels, chia, condensed plant milk, oil, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine the corn flour and baking powder.
• Add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
• Grease a large skillet or pot and pour in the mixture.
• Cook over low heat, covered with a lid, for 45-50 minutes or until the bread is cooked and firm to the touch.
• Allow to cool before unmolding and serving.

Mexican Corn Bread Recipe

Mexican corn bread is a denser variation of traditional corn bread. This cake is characterized by its combination of fresh corn kernels, condensed milk (in our adaptations we use vegetable milk) and a mixture of flours that give it a soft and creamy texture. It is usually served with a layer of sugar sprinkled on top or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it an irresistible dessert for any special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 can condensed milk
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 5 eggs
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a cake pan.
• In a blender, blend the corn kernels, condensed milk, cream, butter, eggs, vanilla extract and salt until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
• Add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well until all ingredients are combined.
• Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cool before unmolding and serving. Sprinkle with sugar or serve with vanilla ice cream.

Guatemalan Cornbread Recipe

Guatemalan cornbread is a traditional version of this dessert in Guatemala, where it is celebrated for its authentic flavor and simplicity. This recipe in its original version uses fresh corn kernels, milk, eggs, and sugar. In this vegan adaptation we will use plant-based milk, replacing the egg with chia + tbsp water, creating a slightly sweet and fluffy bread that is perfect to accompany your afternoon coffee. Guatemalan cornbread reflects the country’s rich culinary heritage and is a delicious showcase of its gastronomy.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup corn flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a loaf pan.
• In a blender, blend corn kernels, sugar, milk, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine corn flour and baking powder.
• Add wet mixture to dry ingredients and mix well until all ingredients are combined.
• Pour batter into pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
• Let cool before unmolding and serving.
• Tips for a fluffy cornbread recipe

Tips for a fluffy cornbread recipe

To achieve a fluffy and delicious cornbread, there are some tips that can be useful:

• Use fresh and ripe corn: this will ensure a more intense and sweet flavor in the bread.
• Mix the dry ingredients well before adding the liquid mixture: this will help to evenly distribute the ingredients and avoid lumps.
• Do not overmix the dough: once the flour is added, it is important not to overmix to avoid the bread becoming hard.
• Add enough liquid: if the dough seems to be too dry, it may be necessary to add a little more milk or cream to achieve a suitable consistency.
• Use suitable molds: if a mold that is too large is used, the bread may be too thin and not have the desired fluffiness. Ideally, use a medium-sized mold.
• Do not open the oven during baking: this can affect the baking process and cause the bread not to rise properly.

Enjoying corn bread in any of its versions is an experience that connects with tradition and culinary innovation. Whether vegan, gluten-free or in its classic form, this dessert is perfect to share with family and friends on any occasion. Enjoy!