Gelatin Free Classic Spoon Bread
Spoon bread sits somewhere between a soufflé and a cornbread pudding — scoopable, custardy, and deeply comforting in a way that feels both rustic and a little special. The lift here comes entirely from whipped egg whites folded into a thick stone-ground cornmeal base, so there's no gelatin or any setting agent needed to get that gorgeous, pillowy texture. Whole milk and butter give it a richness that makes every spoonful feel indulgent, while the baking powder works alongside those airy whites to help the center puff and the top turn a deep, burnished gold. Because every ingredient is straightforward pantry staple or fresh dairy, you never have to second-guess a label or worry about hidden additives sneaking into your dish. The technique of folding in the whites in stages is the real secret — it keeps the batter light without deflating all that hard-won volume. Pull it from the oven and serve it immediately straight from the baking dish, because this is one of those recipes that rewards you most when it's still steaming and just barely set in the center.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup stone-ground white cornmeal
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 2-quart baking dish and set aside.
- 2
Combine the milk, water, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the cornmeal in a slow, steady stream, then reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the mixture thickens to a stiff porridge and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!