Pin it
This vegan cornbread recipe creates a soft tender bread with just the right balance of sweet and savory For years I searched for a plantbased cornbread that felt both classic and special and finally this one checks every box Perfect alongside chili or as a snack on its own it becomes even better by day two
I baked this for my best friend’s birthday potluck and not a crumb was left My family insists this is our go to holiday side now
Ingredients
- Plant based milk of your choice: provides moisture and keeps the bread tender choose oat milk or soy for extra richness
- White vinegar or apple cider vinegar: reacts with the baking powder to give a lighter texture I love apple cider for its subtle tang
- Applesauce or nondairy yogurt: gives softness and helps bind everything together go for unsweetened applesauce for classic flavor
- Vegan butter coconut oil almond butter or applesauce: adds richness and helps with that signature cornbread crumb pick vegan butter if you love a buttery flavor
- Corn: gives natural sweetness and texture use frozen or fresh kernels for juicy pops in every bite
- Cornmeal: brings the signature cornbread taste yellow cornmeal gives that sunny color
- Flour: spelt white oat or gluten free all purpose flour for structure white or oat flour gives a lighter result
- Baking powder: ensures a gorgeous lift and fluffy crumb check it’s fresh for best results
- Salt: balances the flavors opt for sea salt when you can
- Sugar or your favorite sweetener: brightens the taste and helps with caramelization I often use coconut sugar for a richer flavor
Step by Step Instructions
- Mix the wet ingredients:
- Combine plant based milk vinegar applesauce or yogurt and melted vegan butter or oil in a bowl Whisk well and let sit for at least ten minutes This step allows the vinegar and milk to curdle while flavors meld
- Prep the pan and oven:
- Heat your oven to 350 degrees F Line or lightly grease an eight by eight inch baking pan so the bread releases easily after baking
- Combine dry and wet ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together corn cornmeal flour baking powder salt and sugar Pour in the liquid mixture and stir just until combined Over mixing leads to dense cornbread
- Bake the cornbread:
- Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan Bake for about twenty five minutes The top should be lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean
- Let it rest:
- Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan at least fifteen minutes before cutting For best texture loosely cover with a towel and let it sit overnight It truly becomes even moister and more flavorful
Pin it
My favorite part is the bursts of sweet corn throughout I remember making this with my niece and laughing as she carefully counted every corn kernel before they went in
Storage Tips
Once cooled store leftover pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days For longer storage refrigerate up to a week Reheat slices in the oven or toaster for best texture If you want to save some for later these squares freeze well individually wrapped
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of applesauce use mashed banana or extra nondairy yogurt for the same moisture and binding feeling For a fat free version use all applesauce or yogurt in place of oil or vegan butter You can substitute coconut sugar or maple syrup to suit your taste or dietary needs
Pin it
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm squares with vegan butter or a drizzle of maple syrup Pair with a spicy vegan chili or stew for cozy meals They also taste fantastic crumbled into salads or topped with roasted vegetables
Cultural Context
Cornbread holds a special place in Southern comfort food and brings people together at gatherings This vegan version honors that warmth while being totally inclusive and animal free I love sharing slices with friends at potlucks knowing nobody misses out
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of plant-based milk works best?
Any variety such as soy, almond, oat, or cashew milk blends well, each contributing subtle nuances to the crumb.
- → How can I achieve a perfectly tender texture?
Allow the liquid ingredients to rest before mixing, and let the finished bread sit overnight for improved moisture and flavor.
- → Can gluten free flour be used?
Yes, gluten free all-purpose flour offers excellent results, keeping the texture light and fluffy.
- → What if I prefer a fat-free version?
Use applesauce or nondairy yogurt instead of butter or oils to achieve a moist and tender crumb without added fat.
- → How do I turn this into muffins?
Pour batter into a muffin tin and bake for around 17 minutes, checking for golden tops and springy centers.
- → Which cornmeal type yields the best crumb?
Fine or medium-grind yellow cornmeal provides a classic texture and vibrant color in every bite.