Name: Southern Cornbread: 10 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy It
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground yellow cornmeal; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar (optional); 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for greasing skillet)

Southern Cornbread is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, known for its golden color and moist texture. This classic dish delivers a delightful aroma and a slightly crumbly texture that leaves you craving more. Perfect for pairing with hearty meals like chili, greens, or BBQ, this cornbread recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this comforting side dish that embodies the essence of Southern cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Cornbread

This Southern cornbread recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it offers a unique blend of flavors that are both rich and comforting. You can enjoy it plain, or try variations like Southern cornbread with jalapeños or Southern cornbread with cheese for a twist. The ability to use pantry staples makes it an accessible dish for any home cook. Additionally, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a versatile option for various diets. Whether you’re having a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, this dish will surely impress your guests. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of Southern-style dishes. For more on the history of cornbread, check out this Serious Eats article.

Ingredients for Southern Cornbread

Gather these items:

1 cup stone-ground yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 to 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
1 tablespoon butter or oil (for greasing skillet)

How to Make Southern Cornbread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 9-inch cast-iron skillet inside to heat.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and optional sugar.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter (make sure butter is cooled).
Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Carefully remove skillet from oven and swirl in butter or oil to coat bottom and sides.
Step 6: Pour batter into hot skillet (you should hear a sizzle) and spread evenly.
Step 7: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or honey.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Southern Cornbread

Keep these in mind:

Use stone-ground cornmeal for an authentic texture and flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay.
For a sweet southern cornbread, add more sugar to the batter for a delightful sweetness.
Ensure your skillet is hot before pouring in the batter for a crusty bottom.
Experiment with add-ins like cheese or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Cornbread

This classic southern cornbread is best served warm. You can enjoy it with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or even alongside a bowl of chili or greens for a complete meal. For a unique twist, try pairing it with sweet southern cornbread variations, adding toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream for dessert. It’s also great as a side dish for family gatherings or BBQs.

Southern Cornbread: 10 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy It - Southern Cornbread - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Southern Cornbread

To store leftover southern cornbread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This allows you to enjoy homemade southern cornbread anytime, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Cornbread

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Cornbread?

The secret lies in using high-quality stone-ground cornmeal and ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the batter. This gives you that perfect crust while keeping the inside moist.

Can I make Southern Cornbread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just remember to bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Cornbread?

Avoid overmixing your batter and ensure the oven is fully preheated. These steps will help achieve the ideal texture and prevent a dense cornbread.

Variations of Southern Cornbread You Can Try

There are many delicious variations of southern cornbread you can experiment with, such as:

Southern cornbread with jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Gluten-free southern cornbread using a gluten-free flour blend.
Southern cornbread with cheese for a cheesy delight.
Sweet southern cornbread with added sugar and honey for a dessert option.

With these variations, you can enjoy different flavors while still holding true to the essence of this traditional southern dish. For more recipes, check out Southern Buttermilk Biscuits or Chipotle Corn Salsa.