Smoked Paprika and Garlic Cornbread

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 6 cloves roasted garlic cloves, mashed
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and smoked paprika.

3. 3

   In a separate small bowl, combine the milk, beaten egg, melted butter, and the mashed roasted garlic.

4. 4

   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.

5. 5

   Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese if using for extra richness.

6. 6

   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.

7. 7

   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. 8

   Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into squares.