Easy Mix Ins for Corn Bread
I love cornbread during the winter months. Not only does it go well with dishes like chili or Brunswick stew, but it’s also just a super easy bread option that’s quick to make! Personally, I love those Jiffy corn bread muffin mixes, but you can easily use these mix ins for homemade corn bread as well.
Why use a mix in for cornbread? First, I love using up leftovers of course! Second, sometimes eating the same exact thing all the time gets boring, so I like to jazz it up and try new flavor combinations.
What can you mix in to corn bread to make it better?
Here is my list of favorite items to mix into corn bread!
Let’s start with Sweet Options:
Cream Style Corn
Adding cream-style corn to your cornbread batter is a game-changer! It not only amps up the moisture but also gives the bread a sweet, rich corn flavor with delightful bursts of texture. Perfect for those who love cornbread that’s both hearty and tender.
Honey or Maple Syrup
A drizzle of honey or maple syrup mixed into the batter infuses your cornbread with natural sweetness. These additions create a warm, caramel-like flavor that complements the earthy taste of cornmeal, making it irresistible for breakfast or as a side.
Cinnamon
A pinch of cinnamon transforms cornbread into a cozy, spiced treat. The subtle warmth of cinnamon pairs beautifully with the corn’s natural sweetness, making it perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar brings a depth of flavor to cornbread with its rich molasses notes. It enhances the sweetness and adds a soft, slightly chewy texture that feels like a delicious hybrid of cornbread and dessert.
Crushed Pineapple
Crushed pineapple gives your cornbread a tropical twist! The fruit adds a touch of tangy sweetness and extra moisture, resulting in a soft and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for summer barbecues or brunch.
Strawberry or Peach Jam
Swirling strawberry or peach jam into your cornbread batter creates pockets of fruity goodness in every bite. The combination of sweet jam and the slightly savory cornmeal is a delightful way to make your cornbread stand out, especially for dessert.
Spice Options for Corn Bread
Chili Powder
Adding chili powder gives cornbread a smoky, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like chili or BBQ. The earthy heat complements the natural sweetness of the cornmeal, creating a balanced and flavorful bite.
Oregano
A sprinkle of oregano in your cornbread adds a savory, herbaceous note that works wonderfully for Mediterranean-inspired meals. It’s a great way to elevate cornbread from a simple side dish to a more sophisticated accompaniment.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder brings a rich, savory flavor to your cornbread, making it the perfect match for soups, stews, or roasted meats. It’s a simple addition that adds depth and transforms plain cornbread into a savory sensation.
Ranch Seasoning
Mixing in ranch seasoning gives your cornbread a creamy, tangy, and herby boost. It’s a fantastic way to create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs with just about anything from fried chicken to veggie platters.
Old Bay Seasoning
Old Bay seasoning brings a bold and zesty flavor to cornbread with its mix of celery salt, paprika, and spices. This mix-in is perfect for seafood-inspired meals, clam chowder, or a coastal-themed dinner.
Garlic & Herb Blend
A garlic and herb blend elevates cornbread with layers of savory goodness. The combination of herbs and garlic creates a versatile flavor that pairs well with both hearty mains and lighter dishes like salads or grilled vegetables.
Savory Mix Ins for Corn Bread
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Adding shredded cheddar cheese to your cornbread creates a rich, savory twist with gooey pockets of melted cheese in every bite. It’s perfect for pairing with chili or soups, adding extra comfort to your meal.
Jalapeño Slices
Jalapeño slices bring a spicy kick and a bold, zesty flavor to cornbread. Whether you mix them in or place them on top for a decorative touch, they’re a fantastic way to spice things up for those who love heat.
Chopped Green Onion
Chopped green onion adds a fresh, mild onion flavor to your cornbread. It’s an easy way to incorporate a bit of brightness and color, making it a great side for savory dishes like roasted meats or salads.
Bacon Pieces
Bacon pieces add a smoky, salty crunch that takes cornbread to the next level. The combination of crispy bacon and the slightly sweet cornmeal is a crowd-pleaser, especially for breakfast or BBQ spreads.
Regular Canned Corn (Not Cream Style)
Mixing in regular canned corn gives your cornbread a delightful texture and pops of juicy sweetness. It’s a simple addition that enhances the flavor of corn in every bite while keeping the bread moist.
Canned Green Chiles
Canned green chiles introduce a mild heat and a touch of tang to your cornbread. They’re a great option for adding Southwestern flair, pairing perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, or any Tex-Mex meal.
Liquid Mix Ins for Corn Bread
Sour Cream
Adding sour cream to your cornbread batter creates an ultra-moist and tangy loaf. The creamy texture balances the sweetness of the cornmeal, resulting in a richer, more tender bread that pairs beautifully with chili or soups.
Cream Cheese
Swirling cream cheese into your cornbread batter adds pockets of creamy, tangy goodness. It’s an indulgent twist that feels like a cross between cornbread and cheesecake—perfect as a stand-alone snack or dessert.
Buttermilk
Using buttermilk instead of regular milk gives your cornbread a subtle tang and a fluffy texture. The acidity of the buttermilk reacts with the baking powder or soda, making the bread light and airy while adding a depth of flavor.
Chicken or Veggie Broth
Replacing some of the liquid with chicken or veggie broth infuses your cornbread with a savory, umami flavor. This works particularly well for savory cornbread recipes served with soups or stews.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk gives cornbread a slight tropical twist with a hint of sweetness and creaminess. It’s a dairy-free alternative that adds moisture and pairs wonderfully with spiced or sweeter cornbread variations.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt makes your cornbread incredibly moist while adding a tangy richness. It’s a great option for boosting the protein content of your bread while keeping the flavor balanced and delicious.
How to Jazz up Corn Bread?
I do really like plain normal corn bread with some butter on top, but sometimes I am just feeling adventurous! Other times I just have bits and pieces of leftovers I want to use up and corn bread sometimes just works with it.
Either way, I hope these mix in ideas can inspire you to get more creative with your next batch of corn bread! Happy Eating!
