Colonial Spoon Bread

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Colonial Spoon Bread is a soft, custard-like cornmeal dish with deep Southern roots, baked to golden perfection in a cast-iron skillet. Its creamy texture and rich corn flavor make it a comforting side that feels like a warm hug from generations past. Whether served with butter, honey, or alongside savory dishes like stews and greens, spoon bread is the kind of recipe that bridges nostalgia with nourishment.

What sets Colonial Spoon Bread apart from cornbread is its airy, almost pudding-like texture. Instead of being cut into squares, it’s spooned out while warm, which is how it got its name. Born from a blend of Native American and European influences, this dish has stood the test of time and continues to be a staple at Southern tables, especially during holidays and gatherings.

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What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?

The best cornmeal for Colonial Spoon Bread is finely ground yellow cornmeal. It gives the dish a smooth texture while still delivering that signature corn flavor. Avoid coarse or stone-ground cornmeal, which can make the final texture grainy. If you prefer a lighter color, white cornmeal works too—but yellow is more traditional.

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Ingredients for the Colonial Spoon Bread

• Finely Ground Yellow Cornmeal – This is the base of the dish and provides the signature earthy flavor and creamy texture.
• Whole Milk – Adds richness and helps cook the cornmeal into a thick, porridge-like consistency.
• Butter – Melted butter brings a silky finish and enhances flavor depth.
• Eggs – These bind the mixture and give it a custard-like rise while baking.
• Baking Powder – Lifts the spoon bread slightly, ensuring it stays light and fluffy.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness of the corn.

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How To Make the Colonial Spoon Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Cornmeal Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cornmeal and milk. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens to a soft, porridge-like texture. This process should take about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs in the next step.

Step 2: Add the Butter and Seasoning

Stir the melted butter and salt into the warm cornmeal mixture. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 3: Whisk in the Eggs

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Slowly add them to the slightly cooled cornmeal mixture, whisking quickly to ensure the eggs incorporate without scrambling. The mixture should become creamy and slightly glossy.

Step 4: Lighten It Up

Sprinkle in the baking powder and gently fold it into the batter. This step helps the spoon bread puff up slightly while baking and gives it that cloud-like texture.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the mixture into a well-greased cast-iron skillet or a deep baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set but still tender. You should see a gentle wobble in the middle.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let the spoon bread rest for about 5 minutes after baking. Then, spoon it directly onto plates while warm. It’s perfect with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or as a soft and savory side dish.

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How to Serve and Store Colonial Spoon Bread

Colonial Spoon Bread is best served straight from the oven while it’s still warm and custardy. Scoop it out with a large spoon, letting the golden crust contrast with the soft, creamy center. It pairs beautifully with savory mains like fried chicken, pork chops, or smothered greens, and is equally at home on the holiday table next to turkey and gravy. For a sweeter take, drizzle it with honey or maple syrup.

If you have leftovers, let the spoon bread cool completely before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave in short intervals until heated through. While it won’t be as airy as fresh from the oven, it still makes a cozy next-day side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between spoon bread and cornbread?

Cornbread is firmer, often cut into slices or squares, and has a drier crumb. Spoon bread is more like a savory pudding, meant to be scooped out with a spoon.

Can I use white cornmeal instead of yellow?

Yes, white cornmeal works just fine. The flavor will be slightly milder and the color paler, but the texture will remain creamy.

How do I know when spoon bread is done baking?

The top should be golden and puffed, and the center should have a slight wobble but not be liquid. Insert a toothpick off-center—it should come out mostly clean.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat flour—just be sure your cornmeal and baking powder are certified gluten-free.

Can I add cheese or herbs?

Definitely. Sharp cheddar, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of thyme can elevate the flavor and add a savory twist.

Do I have to use a cast-iron skillet?

Nope! A ceramic or glass baking dish works too. Just make sure it’s greased well so the spoon bread doesn’t stick.

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Want More Classic Southern Side Dish Ideas?

If you love Colonial Spoon Bread, you might enjoy these other comforting and flavorful recipes from our kitchen:

• Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecanbread for a nutty, buttery twist on Southern baking.
• Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie when you want silky sweetness in pie form.
• Winter Brittle for a crunchy, seasonal treat that balances sweet and salty.
• Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread with its gooey top and sticky-sweet finish.
• Amish Applesauce Cake for a moist, spiced cake that feels like home.

These recipes offer the same nostalgic comfort and timeless flavor that make Colonial Spoon Bread a standout dish.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for Southern classics or holiday sides so you can find it easily later.

Follow me on Pinterest @hallarecipes for more daily kitchen inspiration and recipes you’ll love.

And I’d love to hear how your spoon bread turned out! Did you serve it sweet or savory? Add herbs or cheese? Share your spin in the comments. Let’s inspire each other!

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