Cornbread recipe

Cornbread Recipe: Classic Southern Comfort

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Introduction

Cornbread is a cherished Southern staple, beloved for its golden, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with hearty meals. This Cornbread recipe delivers a warm, homestyle side dish ideal for barbecues, holiday feasts, or cozy family dinners. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to for home cooks seeking authentic, comforting flavors. With a tender crumb and versatile pairings, this cornbread brings nostalgic warmth and satisfaction to every table.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • Optional: ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped, for spice

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a 9-inch cast-iron skillet.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil until smooth.
  4. Combine: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in optional corn kernels or jalapeño if using.
  5. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared dish or skillet, smoothing the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Serve: Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Cut into squares or wedges and serve warm with butter or honey.

Tips for a Better Cornbread

  • Use yellow cornmeal for classic flavor
  • Measure flour and cornmeal accurately
  • Don’t overmix the batter to keep it tender
  • Preheat the skillet for a crispy crust
  • Use room-temperature buttermilk
  • Check doneness early to avoid dryness
  • Serve warm for the best texture
  • Grease the pan well to prevent sticking
Variations and Customization
  • Sweet Cornbread: Increase sugar to ⅓ cup
  • Spicy Cornbread: Add 1 tsp chili powder with jalapeño
  • Cheesy Cornbread: Mix in ¾ cup shredded cheddar
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal
  • Honey Cornbread: Replace sugar with ¼ cup honey
  • Bacon Cornbread: Add ¼ cup crumbled bacon
  • Herb Cornbread: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
  • Vegan Cornbread: Use plant-based milk and flax eggs
Storage and Serving Tips
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for 5 days
  • Freeze for 3 months; wrap tightly and thaw overnight
  • Serve with chili, fried chicken, or collard greens
  • Reheat in a 325°F oven for 5-10 minutes
  • Use leftovers in cornbread stuffing or croutons
  • Keep cool for transport to gatherings
  • Top with butter or maple syrup
  • Pair with sweet tea or coffee
Nutritional Information

The following nutritional information is approximate, based on 9 servings (1 square per serving):

  • Calories: 240 kcal
  • Total Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 7g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Vitamin A: 6% of Daily Value
  • Calcium: 10% of Daily Value
  • Iron: 8% of Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients like corn or jalapeño. Use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements. Cornbread is moderate in calories but high in fat due to butter and oil; gluten-free or vegan variations suit dietary needs. Cornmeal provides fiber and iron, making it a hearty side.

Conclusion

This Cornbread recipe delivers a warm, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual suppers to festive holiday spreads. Its golden crust and tender crumb create a classic treat that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a Southern staple that brings warmth to every table. This recipe ensures a crowd-pleasing cornbread that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Cornbread recipe

Cornbread Recipe: Classic Southern Comfort

A classic, comforting cornbread with a golden crust, ideal for dinners and barbecues.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • Optional: ½ cup corn kernels
  • Optional: 1 jalapeño chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 425°F; grease 8x8-inch dish
  • Whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
  • Whisk buttermilk, eggs, butter, and oil
  • Combine wet and dry ingredients; add corn or jalapeño
  • Pour into dish; bake 20-25 minutes
  • Cool 5-10 minutes; serve

Notes

  • Don’t overmix batter
  • Use a hot skillet
  • Store at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for 3 months
  • Serve with butter

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