Are you craving a warm and comforting homemade bread that brings back the taste of the South? Look no further than hoe cake bread! This delicious bread is a staple in Southern cuisine, made with simple ingredients that result in a flavorful and tender loaf. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this article will guide you through the process of making hoe cake bread from scratch. Get ready to enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of homemade bread!
Ingredients
To make hoe cake bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious hoe cake bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then add buttermilk, milk, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in a dense bread.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your hoe cake bread turns out perfectly:
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute buttermilk with sour cream or yogurt.
- Feel free to add extra ingredients like shredded cheese, chopped jalapenos, or cooked bacon to customize your bread.
- Make sure your baking powder is fresh to ensure proper rising of the bread.
- For a crustier loaf, you can place a shallow pan of water on the lower rack of the oven while baking.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Hoe cake bread can last for several days when stored properly. Follow these guidelines:
| Storage Method | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 days in an airtight container |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week in a sealed bag or container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months when tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag |
Hoe cake bread is delicious on its own, but it’s also fantastic when served with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat, as a side with soup or stew, or even as a base for sandwiches. Get creative and savor the delicious taste of homemade hoe cake bread!