Cornbread is a Southern staple that's perfect for any meal. Whether you're pairing it with soup, chili, or just slathering it in butter, it's a satisfying addition to your tabletop. Homestyle cornbread mix contains 140 calories per 1/3 cup serving, making it an easy way to enjoy this classic dish.

While it may not be the healthiest food choice out there, it's a good source of carbohydrates and can be made with healthier ingredients like whole wheat flour or honey instead of sugar. Plus, it's a great option for those who are gluten-free, as there are plenty of gluten-free cornbread mixes available on the market.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making the most of your cornbread mix. From calories to storage, we'll cover everything you need to know.

What is Cornbread Mix?

Cornbread mix is simply a blend of cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. It's a quick and easy way to make cornbread without having to measure out all of the ingredients separately. Cornbread mix can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. You can add in extras like cheese, jalapenos, or bacon to give your cornbread a little extra flavor. And as previously mentioned, there are plenty of gluten-free options available for those who need them.

Calories in Cornbread Mix

Homestyle cornbread mix contains 140 calories per 1/3 cup serving. This may seem like a lot, but it's important to remember that cornbread is a carbohydrate-heavy food. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can make some adjustments to your recipe to lower the calorie count. For example, you can use low-fat milk or substitute the oil for applesauce. You can also try cutting the serving size in half.

Ingredients in Homestyle Cornbread Mix

Homestyle cornbread mix typically contains cornmeal, enriched bleached flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), sugar, salt, and baking powder (sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, cornstarch, monocalcium phosphate). While it's not the healthiest choice, some brands also contain partially hydrogenated oils. To make a healthier version, look for a mix that uses whole wheat flour and honey instead of sugar.

Benefits of Cornbread Mix

Cornbread is a great source of carbohydrates, which are essential for providing energy to your body. It's also a good source of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. If you're using a mix, it's also incredibly convenient. All of the ingredients are pre-measured and ready to go, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you're short on time.

Ways to Use Cornbread Mix

There are plenty of ways to use cornbread mix beyond just making a basic pan of cornbread. Here are a few ideas:

• Make corn muffins for a quick and easy breakfast on the go.
• Use cornbread mix to make a savory stuffing for your Thanksgiving turkey.
• Add some extra ingredients like cheese, jalapenos, or bacon to give your cornbread a little extra flavor.
• Use it as a crust for savory pies or quiches instead of traditional pastry crusts.

How to Prepare Homestyle Cornbread Mix

Preparing homestyle cornbread mix is incredibly easy. Simply follow the instructions on the box, which usually involve mixing the mix with milk, eggs, and oil. If you're looking to make a healthier version, you can try substituting some of the ingredients. For example, you can use low-fat milk or substitute the oil for applesauce.

Gluten-Free Cornbread Mix

If you're sensitive to gluten, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of gluten-free cornbread mixes available on the market. Some popular brands include Bob's Red Mill and Krusteaz Gluten-Free Cornbread Mix. When preparing a gluten-free cornbread mix, it's important to follow the instructions closely to ensure a good result. You may also need to make adjustments to your oven temperature or cooking time.

Tips for Baking Perfect Cornbread

Here are a few tips to help you bake the perfect cornbread:

• Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.
• Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to tough cornbread.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for a crispy crust.
• Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before cutting into it.

Storing Cornbread Mix

Cornbread mix should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can also store it in the freezer. Once you've prepared your cornbread, it can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Nutritional Information

Here's the nutritional information for Homestyle Cornbread Mix:

• 140 calories
• 2g protein
• 26g carbohydrates
• 3g fat
• 1g saturated fat
• 300mg sodium
• 10g sugar