Sweet Bacon Cornbread: The Ultimate Recipe You’ll Love

Sweet Bacon Cornbread: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your understanding of cornbread! Imagine the comforting, slightly crumbly texture of classic cornbread, elevated by the salty, smoky crunch of bacon and a subtle hint of sweetness. This isn’t just cornbread; it’s a culinary adventure.

Cornbread itself boasts a rich history, deeply rooted in Native American cuisine. It was a staple food long before European settlers arrived, and variations have evolved across the American South, each region adding its unique touch. The addition of bacon, however, is a more modern twist, a delightful innovation that takes this humble bread to new heights.

What makes sweet bacon cornbread so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness, often achieved with a touch of honey or sugar, complements the savory bacon beautifully. The cornbread provides a comforting base, while the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and smoky depth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s equally at home on a holiday table or as a simple side dish with your favorite chili. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Get ready to bake a batch of this unforgettable bread – you won’t be disappointed!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cornbread:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups yellow cornmeal (stone-ground preferred for texture)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 (8.5 ounce) can creamed corn
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 slices)
• ¼ cup honey, plus extra for drizzling (optional)
• For the Sweet Bacon Topping:
• 6 slices bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)

Preparing the Sweet Bacon Topping:

Okay, let’s get started with the best part – the sweet bacon topping! This is what really elevates this cornbread to something special. The combination of salty bacon, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of maple is just irresistible. Trust me, you might want to make extra!

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy and golden brown. Be sure to stir them occasionally so they cook evenly and don’t burn. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Remove Excess Grease: Once the bacon is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help remove any excess grease. Don’t discard the bacon grease in the skillet just yet! We’ll use a little bit of it for extra flavor.
3. Melt the Butter: Pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease from the skillet. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt over medium heat.
4. Create the Sweet Glaze: Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar and maple syrup to the skillet. Stir constantly until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This should only take a minute or two. Be careful not to burn the sugar!
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked bacon pieces to the skillet with the brown sugar mixture. Stir to coat the bacon evenly. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious, sticky glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat!
6. Set Aside: Remove the skillet from the heat and set the sweet bacon topping aside. We’ll use it later to top the cornbread before baking.

Preparing the Cornbread Batter:

Now that the sweet bacon topping is ready, let’s move on to the cornbread batter. This is a pretty straightforward process, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure a moist and flavorful cornbread.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important to ensure that the cornbread cooks evenly.
2. Grease the Baking Dish: Grease a 9-inch square baking dish (or a 10-inch cast iron skillet) with butter or cooking spray. Make sure to grease it well, especially if you’re using a cast iron skillet, to prevent the cornbread from sticking.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking is important to ensure that the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, which will help the cornbread rise properly.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), and eggs. Make sure the eggs are lightly beaten before adding them to the buttermilk mixture.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cornbread. A few lumps are okay!
6. Add the Creamed Corn and Bacon: Gently fold in the creamed corn and crumbled cooked bacon. The creamed corn adds moisture and sweetness to the cornbread, while the bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor.
7. Add the Honey: Stir in the honey. The honey adds another layer of sweetness and helps to balance the flavors.

Assembling and Baking the Cornbread:

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to assemble the cornbread and get it into the oven. This is where the magic happens!

1. Pour Batter into Baking Dish: Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Top with Sweet Bacon Topping: Spoon the sweet bacon topping evenly over the cornbread batter. Don’t be shy! You want every bite to have a little bit of that delicious bacon goodness.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cornbread should be golden brown on top and slightly pulling away from the sides of the dish.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the cornbread cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving. This will allow it to set up a bit and make it easier to slice.
5. Serve: Cut the cornbread into squares and serve warm. You can drizzle it with a little extra honey, if desired. It’s delicious on its own, but it’s also great with chili, soup, or barbecue.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your sweet bacon cornbread? Here are a few ideas:

• Cheese: Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.
• Jalapeños: Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the batter for added flavor.
• Different Bacon: Experiment with different types of bacon, such as maple-flavored bacon or peppered bacon, for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cornbread gluten-free.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Baking in a cast iron skillet gives the cornbread a wonderfully crispy crust. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a regular baking dish will work just fine.
• Make it Ahead: The sweet bacon topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before topping the cornbread.

Storing Leftovers:

Leftover cornbread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this sweet bacon cornbread as much as I do! It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!

Conclusion:

This Sweet Bacon Cornbread is more than just a side dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need it in your life! The perfect balance of savory bacon, sweet corn, and that satisfying cornbread texture makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds, and maybe even the recipe itself!

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and delivers a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting. Forget dry, crumbly cornbread – this version is moist, flavorful, and packed with deliciousness. The crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky depth that complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly. It’s a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds!

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a classic experience. Or, get a little adventurous! I love crumbling it over chili for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s also fantastic alongside pulled pork, barbecued ribs, or even a simple green salad. For a brunch twist, try topping it with a fried egg and a drizzle of maple syrup – you won’t regret it!

Looking for variations? Absolutely! For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño to the batter. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before baking. You could even swap out the bacon for crumbled sausage for a different savory flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

I’ve made this Sweet Bacon Cornbread countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even just a cozy night in. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together and creates lasting memories. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of bacon and cornbread?

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a guaranteed winner!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover your own favorite way to enjoy it. Once you’ve baked your own batch of this delectable Sweet Bacon Cornbread, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you served it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps inspire other bakers to try this amazing recipe. Happy baking!