Classic Southern Cornbread

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A true comfort food that speaks straight to the soul, Classic Southern Cornbread is golden, crumbly, and kissed with just the right amount of crisp on the edges. It’s a staple in Southern kitchens for a reason. Baked in a cast-iron skillet and served warm from the oven, this cornbread is the kind of side that steals the show.

There’s something deeply nostalgic about the smell of cornbread baking in the oven. It reminds many of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and those long, lazy afternoons spent around the table. Whether you slather it in butter, drizzle it with honey, or use it to mop up a bowl of chili or greens, this is one bread that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Southern Cornbread

This recipe is a winner because it nails that irresistible balance between tender and hearty. It’s just sweet enough to highlight the natural corn flavor without turning into dessert. With a crisp, golden crust from the skillet and a moist center, this cornbread satisfies both purists and those looking for a little comfort twist.

It’s easy, quick, and doesn’t require any fancy tools or ingredients. Plus, it pairs with nearly everything: fried chicken, beans, barbecue, or simply on its own with a pat of butter. It’s a rustic classic that fits into any meal of the day.

What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?

This recipe shines best when you use stone-ground cornmeal. It brings the boldest corn flavor and gives your bread a lovely texture. While white or yellow cornmeal both work, yellow cornmeal offers that iconic color and slightly sweeter flavor. Avoid using self-rising cornmeal unless you adjust the leavening agents accordingly, as this recipe includes its own baking powder and baking soda for the perfect rise.

Ingredients for the Classic Southern Cornbread

When it comes to Southern cornbread, each ingredient has a job to do, bringing flavor and texture to the forefront. Make sure to preheat your skillet for that ideal crispy bottom.

• Yellow cornmeal – This is the backbone of the recipe, delivering the classic color and corn flavor.
• All-purpose flour – Just enough to give the cornbread structure without making it cakey.
• Buttermilk – Adds a gentle tang and helps keep the crumb tender.
• Eggs – Binds everything together and adds richness.
• Baking powder – Provides lift and fluffiness.
• Baking soda – Reacts with the buttermilk for extra leavening.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the slight sweetness.
• Butter or bacon grease – For richness and that traditional Southern depth.

How To Make the Classic Southern Cornbread

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Start by placing your cast-iron skillet in the oven while it preheats to 425°F. This helps create that signature crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk. Add the melted butter (or bacon grease) and stir well.

Step 4: Combine and Pour

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Don’t overmix. Pull the hot skillet from the oven, grease it if needed, and pour in the batter.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

How to Serve and Store Classic Southern Cornbread

This recipe makes enough to serve 8 generous slices, perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it warm, straight out of the skillet, with a spread of butter or a drizzle of honey. It’s also wonderful served alongside hearty dishes like stews, chilis, or greens.

To store leftovers, let the cornbread cool completely and wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat in the oven or toaster for that fresh-baked texture.

What to Serve With Classic Southern Cornbread?

Fried Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and downright delicious, fried chicken and cornbread are a Southern dream team.

Collard Greens

The earthy, smoky flavor of collards pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of cornbread.

Chili

A warm bowl of chili topped with cheddar and a side of cornbread is comfort food perfection.

Pulled Pork BBQ

Barbecue and cornbread just make sense. The savory, smoky meat finds its match in crumbly bread.

Pinto Beans

Slow-cooked beans and a hunk of cornbread is a no-fuss, deeply satisfying Southern supper.

Honey Butter

Turn your cornbread into a sweet treat with a dollop of whipped honey butter.

Gumbo

The bold, spiced flavors of gumbo are mellowed beautifully with a slice of classic cornbread.

Country Ham

Salted, cured ham with cornbread is an old-school pairing that always hits the spot.

Want More Bread Ideas?

If this cornbread hits the spot, you might want to try out these other bread-inspired favorites:

• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf when you want cheesy and savory with every bite.
• Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers for a fun, bite-sized spin.
• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread to satisfy your sweet tooth with a Southern twist.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake as a hearty, cheesy side.
• Herb Cheese Quick Bread when you’re craving soft, herby goodness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it whenever cornbread cravings hit.

And if you give this a go, tell me in the comments how you served it. Was it with chili? Fried chicken? Or maybe slathered with honey and butter?

Questions or your own cornbread tricks? I’d love to hear them. We’re all in this Southern kitchen together.

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