There are so many reasons to love our Community Nights. Maybe you’re a fan of the themed events—like Sports Night, Physical Health Night (where you can even get your flu shot!), Mental Health Night, Clothing Closet Night, or Multicultural Night, just to name a few. Or perhaps you come for the valuable resources provided by our nonprofit partners, like free tutoring that helps students pass that one challenging class.

But let’s be honest—one of the best parts of Community Nights is the incredible food we share.

Food has a way of bringing people together like nothing else. That’s why the free and nutritious meals provided at each event are such a key part of the experience. We all know that breaking bread together is one of the simplest ways to build a united community and learn from one another. At UWABC, we make sure every one of our seven weekly Community Nights is catered by a local nonprofit or small business, offering full, nutritious meals—including salad, sides, main courses, and, of course, dessert.

A Taste of Community at Home

We know that sometimes life gets busy, and you might not always make it to a Community Night. That’s why we asked some of our favorite caterers to share recipes you can easily make at home!

One of our longtime partners, Equal Plates, shared their beloved cornbread recipe, a true country crowd-pleaser. Equal Plates is dedicated to purchasing from small farms at fair prices, transforming quality ingredients into nourishing meals, and partnering with community organizations to share thousands of meals each week with neighbors facing food insecurity. UWABC has been a partner since their inception, and they cater two to four Community Nights every week! Their ever-changing menu always brings something delicious to the table, and seeing their signature cornbread on the side is always a treat.

We recently visited the Equal Plates kitchen, and it was inspiring to see their dedicated staff and volunteers in action. Witnessing their hard work and passion firsthand only deepened our appreciation for their mission and made us even prouder to support them.

Equal Plates’ Head Chef, Chad, has broken down the basics of making their delicious cornbread. Staying true to their mission, this recipe features locally sourced eggs, honey, and cornmeal—all from small farms in our region. By using local ingredients, Equal Plates not only ensures that our community is supported but also that our students have access to the healthiest possible meals.

Cornmeal - 4 cups

Baking Powder - 4 teaspoons

Baking Soda - 2 teaspoons

Kosher Salt - 2 teaspoons

Whole Milk - 1 ½ cup

Sour Cream - 1 ½ cup

Butter - 8 tablespoons OR ½ cup

Eggs - 2 beaten

Honey - 8 tablespoons OR ½ cup

Combine all dry ingredients. Gently mix together. One by one, add in the wet ingredients. Mix the wet ingredients as you all them. Mix all ingredients until well combined. Place in a well-greased 8x10 baking dish. Cook at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

No Time to Cook? We’ve Got You Covered!

We know this recipe is fairly simple, but sometimes you just want the reward without the work. And with the rising cost of ingredients—fresh eggs are practically a luxury these days—we get it!

That’s why, if you don’t have time or the resources to make this delicious cornbread at home, all you have to do is stop by one of our weekly Community Nights. Enjoy Equal Plates' fresh, locally sourced cornbread—no shopping, no cooking, no dishes. We’ll even pick up your plate for you!

So, whether you’re gathering around your own table or joining us at Community Night, we hope this recipe brings a little more warmth, connection, and community into your home.

From Our Table to Yours: The Secret to Equal Plates' Famous Cornbread

A Taste of Community at Home

No Time to Cook? We’ve Got You Covered!

Don't Stop There!

Want to find the closest Community Night to you? Check Out Our Calendar

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