Quick Answer
There are several brands of cornbread mix that are gluten-free, including:
- Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Cornbread Mix
- King Arthur Gluten Free Cornbread Mix
- Namaste Foods Gluten Free Cornbread Mix
- Aleia’s Gluten Free Cornbread Mix
- Jules Gluten Free Cornbread Mix
- Krusteaz Gluten Free Cornbread Mix
Look for mixes that are certified gluten-free or specifically labeled as gluten-free. Double check the ingredients to confirm the mix does not contain any wheat, barley, rye or gluten-containing ingredients. Many mainstream brands like Jiffy are not gluten-free.
What is cornbread?
Cornbread is a traditional American quick bread made with cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, leavening and sometimes extras like sugar, honey, or cheese. It has a slightly gritty, coarse texture from the cornmeal that gives it a unique hearty, rustic quality.
There are different regional variations of cornbread in the United States. Southern-style cornbread often does not contain sugar or much wheat flour, using mostly cornmeal and creating a more savory bread. Northern styles may incorporate more sugar and wheat flour for a sweeter, cakier texture.
No matter the variation, cornbread is a staple side dish for many meals or as the bread for sandwiches and stuffing. It pairs well with chili, barbecues, soups and stews with its signature sweet and savory flavor.
Is traditional cornbread gluten-free?
Traditional cornbread recipes are typically not gluten-free because they contain wheat flour along with cornmeal. Wheat flour provides more structure and rise to cornbread, while the cornmeal gives it color and texture.
Most standard cornbread mixes also contain wheat flour, even prominent brands like Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix. Wheat is one of the gluten-containing grains, so these traditional cornbreads are not safe for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
However, there are ways to tweak traditional cornbread to be gluten-free. Substituting the wheat flour for gluten-free flour blends, tapioca starch or other alternatives makes a version that still has traditional cornbread taste and texture but without the gluten.
Why look for gluten-free cornbread?
There are a few main reasons someone may specifically need a gluten-free cornbread mix:
- Celiac Disease: People with celiac disease must avoid gluten because it triggers an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine.
- Gluten Sensitivity: Those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity experience symptoms like fatigue, gastrointestinal upset and headachs upon ingesting gluten.
- Wheat Allergies: Wheat allergies also require avoidance of wheat-based ingredients, including wheat flour.
- Preference: Some people simply prefer gluten-free baked goods or need them for elimination diets like paleo.
For those who need or wish to avoid gluten, finding a gluten-free cornbread mix ensures they can still enjoy this classic comfort food.
What to look for in gluten-free cornbread mix
When evaluating gluten-free cornbread mixes, here are some beneficial features to look for:
- Certified Gluten-Free – Look for mixes certified as gluten-free by organizations like GFCO.
- Free from Wheat, Barley, Rye – Check the ingredient list to ensure no gluten-containing grains are included.
- Reputable Gluten-Free Brand – Purchase from brands dedicated to gluten-free foods for reliability.
- Contains Xanthan Gum – This provides binding and structure like gluten does in bread.
- Includes Pre-Mixed Ingredients – All-in-one mixes with flours and leavening mixed in save prep time.
- No Artificial Ingredients – Choose mixes without artificial colors or flavors.
- Made in Dedicated Facility – Opt for those made in gluten-free facilities to prevent cross-contamination.
Examining the mix’s ingredients and gluten-free certifications lends confidence that the cornbread will be safe and tasty for those requiring a gluten-free diet.
Top Brands of Gluten-Free Cornbread Mixes
Many brands now offer gluten-free cornbread mixes that meet the dietary needs of those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance without sacrificing the great flavors and textures of cornbread.
Here is an overview of some top gluten-free cornbread mixes on the market:
Bob’s Red Mill
Bob’s Red Mill is a trusted leader in gluten-free flours and mixes, including their Gluten Free Cornbread Mix. It contains sorghum flour, corn flour, potato starch and xanthan gum to mimic the binding qualities of gluten. The mix comes pre-combined so all you add are wet ingredients. Bob’s Red Mill verifies gluten-free status through third-party lab testing.
King Arthur
King Arthur Gluten Free Cornbread Mix offers the familiar sweetness and texture of traditional cornbread in a gluten-free formula. It incorporates non-GMO cornmeal, potato starch, tapioca starch, brown rice flour and xanthan gum. As a dedicated gluten-free bakery, King Arthur provides relied on gluten-free mixes.
Namaste Foods
Namaste Foods makes an array of gluten-free flours and baking mixes, including their Perfect Gluten Free Cornbread Mix. Their unique blend of ingredients like brown rice flour, sorghum flour, potato starch and psyllium hulls fiber helps create the ideal texture. Namaste Foods specializes in allergy-friendly foods.
Aleia’s
Aleia’s handcrafts artisan gluten-free products like their Gluten Free Homestyle Cornbread Mix. It contains a proprietary blend of non-GMO, vegan and kosher ingredients. Aleia’s certified gluten-free kitchen prevents cross-contamination. Their cornbread mix mimics the taste and feel of traditional cornbread.
Jules Gluten Free
Jules Gluten Free offers convenient gluten-free all-in-one baking mixes, including Gluten Free Cornbread Mix. This has no artificial ingredients and makes moist, delicious cornbread with added sugar. Jules Gluten Free focuses specifically on creating mixes for specialized diets.
Krusteaz
Krusteaz has created a line of gluten-free baking mixes, including their Gluten-Free Cornbread & Muffin Mix. This works as either cornbread or muffins for versatility. It contains sorghum flour, tapioca starch and potato starch for the signature coarse cornbread texture. Krusteaz tests their facility and products for gluten.
Tips for Making Gluten-Free Cornbread
Gluten-free cornbread made from mixes tends to be simple to prepare, though there are some tips that can help maximize both the flavor and texture:
- Grease pans well as gluten-free batters are more sticky.
- Allow batter to rest and thicken for 5-10 minutes before baking.
- Bake at slightly lower temperature, around 375°F, to prevent dryness.
- Check for doneness early to avoid over-baking.
- Cool bread completely before cutting for clean slices.
- Store tightly wrapped as gluten-free breads stale faster.
- Freeze extra cornbread if not eating within a few days.
Taking precautions with preparation helps gluten-free cornbread come out with a tasty, tender crumb.
Gluten-Free Cornbread Recipe from Scratch
While mixes offer convenience, you can make gluten-free cornbread completely from scratch too. Here is a recipe:
Ingredients
| Amount | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 cups | Gluten-free flour blend |
| 3/4 cup | Cornmeal |
| 1 Tbsp | Baking powder |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/4 cup | Sugar or honey |
| 1 1/4 cups | Milk |
| 1 | Egg |
| 3 Tbsp | Melted butter |
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease an 8-inch square pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the gluten-free flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, milk, egg and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake 25-30 minutes until lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
This simple gluten-free cornbread recipe allows you to control all the ingredients for a tasty homemade version. Adjust the proportion of cornmeal to flour or add extras like cheese or jalapenos to customize it to your taste.
Common Questions about Gluten-Free Cornbread
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about gluten-free cornbread:
Does cornbread have gluten?
Traditional cornbread made with wheat flour contains gluten. However, cornbread made with gluten-free ingredients like cornmeal, starch and gluten-free flour blends can be gluten-free.
What can I substitute for wheat flour in cornbread?
Common substitutes for wheat flour are gluten-free flour blends, cornmeal, tapioca starch or potato starch, brown rice flour, almond flour or sorghum flour. Using a blend provides more structure.
Is Jiffy corn muffin mix gluten-free?
No, Jiffy corn muffin mix contains wheat flour so it is not gluten-free. There are several brands such as Bob’s Red Mill that make gluten-free cornbread muffin mixes.
What is the best gluten-free flour for cornbread?
A blend of gluten-free flours works best to replicate the texture of wheat flour. Good options are brown rice flour, sorghum flour, tapioca starch and potato starch. Using all-purpose gluten-free flour aids with rising.
How do you make cornbread moist without eggs or oil?
Apple sauce or mashed banana can substitute for oil to add moisture. For egg substitute, options are flax eggs (1 Tbsp ground flax + 2-3 Tbsp water), or commercial egg replacer powder. Reduce other liquids slightly with subs.
Conclusion
Cornbread is an American staple that can be enjoyed gluten-free by using mixes or recipes made with cornmeal and gluten-free flour alternatives. Top pre-made mixes that are certified gluten-free include Bob’s Red Mill, King Arthur, Namaste Foods, Aleia’s, Jules and Krusteaz. With proper ingredients and preparation, gluten-free cornbread can have all the sweetness and texture of traditional versions. Those with celiac disease or food sensitivities don’t have to miss out on this comforting side dish.
