Corn Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 400F.
2. 2
   Grease an 8-inch square pan and set aside.
3. 3
   In a medium mixing bowl, place the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. 4
   Whisk together until well blended.
5. 5
   In the work bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large mixing bowl with a handheld mixer, place the sugar and shortening and beat on medium speed until well blended, 2 to 3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
6. 6
   Add the eggs and beat until well combined, scraping down the side of the bowl.
7. 7
   Add the milk and beat until blended.
8. 8
   Add the cornmeal mixture and stir to combine.
9. 9
   Stir in the jalapenos if desired.
10. 10
    Pour into the prepared pan and bake until the edges begin to pull away from the sides and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, about 30 minutes.
11. 11
    Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving, preferably slathered with lots of butter!