Classic and Authentic Southern Cornbread Recipe

4 stars
3.92 (13)
Classic and Authentic Southern Cornbread Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
60mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on December 17, 2023

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to preheat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. 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.
  6. Pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet and spread it evenly.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. 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.