I’ve always loved the way cornbread can elevate any meal. I remember the first time I made it: a lazy Sunday afternoon, a bit of experimenting in the kitchen. The smell of it baking filled the house with warmth, and the first bite was heaven-crisp on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside. Since then, cornbread has become my go-to side for so many occasions.
When I stumbled across Jamie Oliver’s cornbread recipe, I knew I had to try it. He’s always been great at taking simple ingredients and transforming them into something extraordinary. This recipe combines that same magic. Let me share the recipe, break it down, and show you how to make your own version that’s as good as his.
Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Recipe
Jamie’s version of cornbread is an unpretentious yet beautiful combination of cornmeal, flour, milk, and butter. It’s not overly sweet and doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients, which makes it perfect for nearly any meal-be it alongside a stew or just served with butter. What I love most about it is how it gets that perfect balance between crumbly and moist.
Here’s a quick rundown of the recipe:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Serves: 8 people
It’s so easy to make, and it always turns out golden and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed
Jamie’s cornbread recipe calls for some basic pantry staples. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- Cornmeal (1 cup): This gives cornbread its signature texture and flavor.
- Self-raising flour (1 cup): The key to making the cornbread rise without the need for added baking powder.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): For a little extra rise.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Just enough to bring the flavors together.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): A slight sweetness, not overpowering.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps to bring everything together into a smooth batter.
- Eggs (2 large): Binding everything together and adding a bit of richness.
- Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds moisture and flavor.
- Chopped fresh herbs (optional, for garnish): Jamie adds a touch of fresh herbs for flavor and decoration.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread
I always thought cornbread would be a tricky thing to get right. But Jamie’s recipe proved me wrong. Here’s the process I follow when making it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a square baking pan or use parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine the cornmeal, self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk them together until fully mixed.
- Whisk the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, crack the eggs, add the milk, and pour in the melted butter. Mix it all together until smooth.
- Combine both mixtures. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until it forms a smooth batter.
- Bake. Pour the batter into your greased baking pan. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden on top and a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool and serve. Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm with butter or a drizzle of honey.
It’s one of those recipes where the magic happens while you’re not even looking. The simple ingredients come together to create something comforting and flavorful.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
There’s something really cool about the science behind cornbread. Let’s break down a few key ingredients and see why they work so well:
- Cornmeal: The coarseness of cornmeal gives cornbread its signature texture. It absorbs moisture from the liquid ingredients, creating a crumbly yet moist result.
- Self-raising flour: This flour already has baking powder and salt mixed in, making it easier to get that rise without adding anything extra.
- Butter: Fat is essential in baking, not just for flavor but also for tenderness. The butter keeps the cornbread moist while helping it brown on top. It also adds richness.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder and provide structure. They help the cornbread set properly so it doesn’t crumble apart as you slice it.
- Sugar: While cornbread is not a cake, a little bit of sugar rounds out the flavors without overpowering the savory elements.
It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients come together to create something that feels so homey yet elevated.
Expert Tips
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that have made this cornbread even better:
- Use a hot pan: Preheating your pan in the oven for a few minutes before pouring in the batter helps the cornbread get that crispy bottom.
- Don’t over-mix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Stir just enough to combine the ingredients. Over-mixing will lead to dense cornbread.
- Add extras: While the recipe is simple, you can jazz it up with additions like cheese, chili flakes, or even bacon bits. It adds flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the butter: Butter gives the cornbread its flavor and moistness. Using anything else might lead to a drier result.
- Let it cool: For the best texture, let the cornbread rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. It firms up and makes slicing easier.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about cornbread is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations you can try to make it your own:
- Cheddar & Jalapeño: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Honey Cornbread: Add a tablespoon or two of honey to the batter for a touch of sweetness.
- Corn & Bacon: For a savory kick, add cooked bacon bits and a handful of sweetcorn kernels to the batter.
- Vegan Cornbread: Swap the eggs and butter for flax eggs and a non-dairy butter or oil. Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Final Words
I never get tired of cornbread. Whether it’s with a hearty bowl of chili or just a simple weeknight dinner, it’s always a hit. Jamie’s version is so easy to make, yet it’s full of flavor and texture that you wouldn’t expect from something so simple. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’ve mastered something in the kitchen, even though it’s incredibly straightforward.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Different From Other Recipes?
Jamie Oliver’s cornbread is unique because it uses a blend of sweet and savory ingredients like honey and buttermilk, giving it a rich flavor and moist texture.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Without Buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a little lemon juice or vinegar to create a tangy effect.
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cornbread Extra Fluffy?
To make it fluffier, be sure to sift the dry ingredients well and don’t overmix the batter. Also, let the baking powder do its job by not opening the oven too early.