How Many Calories in Cornbread? Nutrition Facts & Macros
100 grams of cornbread has 266 calories
Protein 6.7g · Carbs 43.5g · Fat 7.1g
Cornbread is a classic American quick bread made from cornmeal — at 266 calories per 100g, it provides 43.5g carbs, 6.7g protein, and 7.1g fat. A good source of calcium (249mg, 19% DV) from the milk and eggs. A comfort food staple of Southern cuisine that pairs perfectly with chili, barbecue, and soups.
1113 kJ · per 100g · Water: 39.1 g
Calorie Calculator: Cornbread
100 g Cornbread contains 266 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice (65 g) | 173 kcal | 4.4g | 28.3g | 4.6g |
| 1 square piece (85 g) | 226 kcal | 5.7g | 37g | 6g |
| 100 grams | 266 kcal | 6.7g | 43.5g | 7.1g |
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Cornbread — Nutrition Facts
| Cornbread | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 266 kcal |
| Protein | 6.7 g |
| Fat | 7.1 g |
| Carbs | 43.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.56 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1.83 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.21 g |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 658 mg |
| Potassium | 147 mg |
| Calcium | 249 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
| Phosphorus | 169 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Zinc | 0.6 mg |
| Manganese | 0.118 mg |
| Selenium | 10.1 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.3 mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.291 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.294 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 2.25 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.113 mg |
| Folate | 77 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.15 mcg |
| Water | 39.1 g |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 174910) · Data verified September 2026
Variations
Southern-style cornbread
No sugar, 100% cornmeal (no wheat flour), baked in a preheated cast-iron skillet with bacon grease or butter. The hot fat creates a crispy golden crust. Savory, crumbly, and the traditional pairing for beans, greens, and buttermilk. Slightly lower in calories than sweet cornbread (no sugar) but higher in fat (bacon drippings). The cornmeal-only version is naturally gluten-free.
Sweet cornbread (Northern-style)
Sugar and wheat flour added — sweeter, softer, cake-like texture. Often includes honey or molasses for extra sweetness. About 280-310 kcal per 100g depending on the sugar and butter amount. Popular in Northern US states. Pairs well with butter and honey, chili, or served as a side with barbecue. Not gluten-free due to the wheat flour.
Cornbread muffins
Same batter as cornbread but baked in a muffin tin — individual portions make calorie counting easier. One standard muffin is about 55-65g (145-175 kcal). They develop more crust surface area than a pan of cornbread, giving a crispier exterior. Great for meal prep — freeze individually wrapped and reheat for 30 seconds in the microwave. Popular addition to chili night.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Cornbread is moderate for weight loss at 266 kcal per 100g — comparable to regular bread. The main challenges: low protein (6.7g) and low fiber mean you won't stay full long. To make it work: pair with high-protein chili or soup, use smaller portions (one muffin = ~160 kcal, easier to control). Southern-style (no sugar) has fewer calories than sweet cornbread. Avoid adding butter — that adds 100+ kcal per tablespoon. Cornbread crumbles make a higher-calorie topping for salads.
For Athletic Performance
Cornbread provides moderate carbs (43.5g per 100g) with decent calcium (249mg, 19% DV — important for bone-loading sports). The carb-to-protein ratio isn't ideal for recovery (7:1 vs recommended 3-4:1), so pair with protein sources. Good as a pre-workout carb source 2-3 hours before training — the low fiber means it digests relatively quickly. Southern-style cornbread with buttermilk after training provides carbs + calcium + some protein. Not as carb-dense as rice or pasta for serious carb-loading.
For Keto
Cornbread is NOT keto-friendly: 43.5g carbs per 100g — even a small slice (65g) has 28g net carbs, over the daily keto limit. For keto cornbread alternatives: use almond flour + coconut flour + eggs (many recipes available online) — these can get to 3-5g net carbs per serving. Add cheese for flavor and fat. Another option: keto corn-flavored muffins using corn extract (not cornmeal) for the taste without the carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in cornbread?
100g of cornbread has 266 calories with 43.5g carbs, 6.7g protein, and 7.1g fat. A typical slice (~65g) has about 173 calories. Cornbread is moderate in calories — denser than regular bread but lighter than cake. The calorie count varies significantly by recipe: Southern-style (more butter/sugar) can reach 300+ kcal per 100g, while Northern-style (less sweet) stays closer to 250.
Is cornbread healthy?
Cornbread provides good calcium (249mg, 19% DV), selenium (10µg), and B vitamins. However, it's relatively high in sodium (658mg) and moderate in fat (7.1g). Compared to wheat bread, cornbread has more calories but also more nutrients from eggs and milk. For a healthier version: use whole-grain cornmeal, reduce sugar, and add-in vegetables like jalapeños or corn kernels for fiber and nutrients.
Is cornbread gluten-free?
Traditional cornbread is NOT gluten-free — most recipes use a mix of cornmeal and wheat flour. However, cornbread CAN be made gluten-free by using 100% cornmeal (or cornmeal + gluten-free flour). Pure cornmeal is naturally gluten-free. Always check the recipe or label — store-bought mixes almost always contain wheat flour.
What's the difference between Northern and Southern cornbread?
Southern cornbread: no sugar, no flour, 100% cornmeal, baked in a cast-iron skillet with bacon grease — savory, crumbly, crusty bottom. Northern cornbread: sugar added, wheat flour mixed in, baked in a pan — sweeter, cake-like, softer. Calorie-wise, Southern is slightly lower (no sugar) but higher in fat (bacon drippings). Both are delicious — it's a regional preference.
How does cornbread compare to regular bread?
Per 100g: cornbread has more calories (266 vs 252) and more fat (7.1g vs 3.5g) and calcium (249mg vs 161mg), though lower in selenium (10µg vs 25.7µg). Cornbread has less protein (6.7g vs 12.45g). Regular bread wins on convenience and versatility; cornbread wins on flavor and pairs better with specific dishes (chili, BBQ, collard greens).
How to store cornbread?
Room temperature: 2-3 days wrapped in foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerator: up to 1 week (may dry out — reheat in oven at 175°C/350°F for 5-10 min). Freezer: up to 3 months — wrap tightly in plastic then foil. To reheat: microwave 20-30 seconds or oven 10-15 minutes. Brush with butter before reheating for moisture. Leftover cornbread makes excellent cornbread stuffing or croutons.
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