Are you ready to elevate your cornbread game? This Cheddar Cornbread with Pepitas is not just any side dish; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds! With a golden crust, a moist and cheesy interior, and the delightful crunch of pepitas, this cornbread is the perfect companion for soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this American classic that promises to impress your family and friends. Dive into this recipe to discover the secrets to making cornbread that’s both comforting and irresistible!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup pepitas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well mixed and there are no lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, honey, and melted butter until fully combined. Make sure the butter is not too hot to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and pepitas, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm, either plain or with a spread of butter. Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Cornbread with Pepitas!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh cornmeal and high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. A sharp cheddar will add a deliciously tangy kick!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cornbread by adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or substituting the pepitas with other nuts or seeds for a different crunch.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cornbread as it bakes. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Serve Warm: Cornbread is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Serve it with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey to enhance its flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
