There’s nothing better than a warm and delicious piece of cornbread, especially when it’s made from scratch. However, not everyone has the time or skill to make cornbread from scratch. That’s where boxed cornbread mix comes in handy! But just because the mix is boxed doesn’t mean it can’t be improved.
Here are some of the ways to improve boxed cornbread mix.
1. Add an egg
Any cook knows that eggs are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be fried, scrambled, poached, or used to add richness and flavor to baked goods.
Adding an egg to a boxed cornbread mix is a simple way to upgrade the dish and give it a more homemade taste. The egg will help to bind the ingredients together, resulting in a more moist and tender cornbread.
In addition, the egg will add a subtle richness to the flavor of the cornbread. As a result, this simple ingredient can make a big difference in the taste and texture of the final dish.
2. Use buttermilk
Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product that is made by adding bacteria to milk. It is also more acidic than regular milk, which causes it to react differently when used in baking.
Buttermilk is a key ingredient in many cornbread recipes. The sour milk gives the cornbread a subtle tanginess that makes it more flavorful, while the fat content adds moisture and makes the bread more tender. As a result, buttermilk helps to create a cornbread that is both delicious and easy to eat.
In addition, buttermilk can also help to extend the shelf life of cornbread. Because of its acidity, buttermilk prevents mold and bacteria from growing on the surface of the bread. Cornbread made with buttermilk will stay fresh for longer.
3. Add some sugar
When it comes to cornbread, there are two camps: those who prefer it sweet, and those who prefer it savory. However, most boxed cornbread mixes fall squarely in the latter category. This can be a problem for those who prefer their cornbread on the sweeter side, as the savory flavors can dominate.
One way to balance out the flavors is to add a little bit of sugar to the mix. This will help to bring out the natural sweetness of the cornmeal and create a more balanced flavor overall. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory cornbread, a little bit of sugar can go a long way.
Start with just a tablespoon or two and then adjust to taste. You can also add other sweeteners like honey or molasses for a different flavor profile.
4. Use melted butter
When it comes to cornbread, there are two camps: those who prefer it savory, and those who prefer it sweet. But no matter which side you’re on, there’s one thing that everyone can agree on: butter makes everything better. Cornbread is no exception.
While oil or shortening will give the cornbread a crispy texture, melted butter will make it softer and give it a richer flavor. Just be sure not to use too much, as too much butter can make the cornbread greasy.
5. Add some spices
Adding spice to cornbread is a great way to liven up a classic dish. For a simple twist, try adding a tablespoon of diced jalapeño peppers to the batter. If you want something with a bit more heat, try using diced habanero peppers instead.
If you want your cornbread to have a little bit of kick, try adding some spice. A teaspoon of chili powder or cumin will give the bread a nice flavor without being too overwhelming.
For a sweeter cornbread, try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter. You can also add dried fruit, such as raisins or dried cranberries, for an extra burst of flavor. Whatever ingredients you choose to add, be sure to experiment until you find a combination that you love.
6. Add Honey or Maple Syrup
As anyone who has ever made cornbread knows, the key to a perfect loaf is finding the right balance of sweetness and moisture. Too much of either one can result in a bread that is either too dry or too crumbly. However, a touch of honey or maple syrup can help to achieve the perfect balance.
Not only will these additions give the cornbread a subtle sweetness, but they will also add moisture which will prevent the bread from becoming dry. As a result, adding honey or maple syrup to your boxed cornbread mix is an easy way to take your cornbread to the next level.
7. Bake in a cast iron skillet for a crispy, golden brown crust
A crispy, golden-brown crust is the hallmark of a good cornbread, and the best way to achieve it is by baking the cornbread in a cast iron skillet. The high heat of the skillet helps to create a perfectly crisp crust, while the heavy weight of the skillet ensures that the cornbread cooks evenly throughout.
Also, the well-seasoned surface of a cast iron skillet prevents sticking, making it easy to remove the cornbread from the pan. If you’re looking for a perfect cornbread with a crispy crust, be sure to bake it in a cast iron skillet.
Conclusion
Cornbread has a distinctively sweet and slightly salty flavor that is unlike any other bread. It is also incredibly versatile- it can be eaten on its own, used as a dipping sauce, or even crumbled on top of soup or chili. Best of all, cornbread is relatively easy to make, and can be tailored to suit any taste.
Boxed cornbread mix is a quick and easy way to make cornbread, but it can be improved with some simple additions. By adding fresh or frozen corn kernels, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese, you can create a flavorful and more filling cornbread. Boxed mixes often lack flavor, so these additions are a great way to add some extra flavor without much effort.
