This traditional Southern cornbread recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it is moist, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with a bowl of hot chili or a plate of fried chicken. The crispy golden crust and light, tender crumb are what make this cornbread truly special. Whether you're from the South or just craving a taste of Southern comfort food, this recipe will not disappoint. It's time to bring a little taste of the South to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to preheat.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add a tablespoon of butter, swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides of the skillet.
- Pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cornbread cool in the skillet for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Interesting Facts
Southern cornbread is traditionally made without any sugar, unlike Northern-style cornbread.
Using a cast-iron skillet is the secret to achieving a crispy crust.
Cornbread is a staple in Southern cuisine and is often served as a side dish with barbecue, beans, or greens.
Leftover cornbread can be crumbled and used to make cornbread stuffing or transformed into delicious cornbread croutons.