Cornbread

Our buttery Cornbread is the warm, comforting side that’s easy to whip up and perfect for any meal.

With simple ingredients like stone-ground cornmeal, buttermilk, and melted butter, this cornbread bakes up with a tender crumb and a hint of sweetness.

You’ll love how quick it is to pull together, making this a go-to recipe whenever you want a satisfying homemade treat that’s ready in no time!

YELLOW COARSE CORNMEAL – I use coarse stone-ground cornmeal, which gives the bread its signature crumbly texture and earthy, rustic flavor. If you only have fine cornmeal, it’ll work too, though the texture will be smoother. Coarse cornmeal really makes a difference if you’re aiming for traditional cornbread.

ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR – This flour provides structure to balance the crumbly nature of cornmeal. It keeps the bread tender yet sturdy, so each slice holds together nicely instead of crumbling apart.

SUGAR – A touch of sugar adds just the right hint of sweetness, bringing out the natural flavors of the corn without making the bread overly sweet. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly without compromising flavor.

BAKING POWDER – This leavening agent ensures the bread rises well, creating a light, fluffy texture. It’s essential for helping the cornbread rise and keeping it soft rather than dense.

SALT – Using coarse salt enhances all the other ingredients, deepening the flavor and making each bite taste richer. It’s a small amount, but it truly elevates the overall flavor.

BUTTERMILK – Buttermilk gives the bread a slight tang and adds to its tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk—this quick trick works just as well!

BUTTER – Melted unsalted butter adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the cornmeal’s earthy flavor. It’s an ingredient that really brings everything together.

EGGS – Using a whole egg plus an extra yolk keeps the bread moist and adds a wonderful texture. This combination provides structure and richness, resulting in a soft, tender crumb that doesn’t fall apart.

1. Combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Beat the whole egg and extra yolk in a small bowl, then set aside.
3. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and beaten eggs to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
4. Bake at 375º Fahrenheit for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

BUTTER – Serve warm cornbread with a generous spread of salted butter for a simple, classic touch. For a richer taste, try whipped honey butter, which adds a slight sweetness and creaminess.

HONEY – Drizzle warm cornbread with honey for a deliciously sweet finish. For a unique twist, try truffle honey to add a subtle earthy note that complements the cornbread’s rustic flavor.

JAM OR PRESERVES – A spoonful of blackberry or fig jam pairs wonderfully with cornbread, adding a burst of fruity sweetness that balances the bread’s natural corn flavor.

CHEESE SPREAD – Serve with a tangy cheese spread like goat cheese or pimento cheese. The creamy, savory spread creates a lovely contrast to the crumbly texture of the cornbread.

PARSLEY BUTTER – Mix softened butter with freshly chopped parsley for a herby, savory option that adds a fresh, bright flavor. It’s perfect if you’re serving the cornbread with savory dishes like soups or chili.

Recipe Success Tips

ith a wooden spoon or spatula. This helps avoid overworking the batter, keeping the cornbread tender and light.

RESTING IS KEY – Allowing the batter rest for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It allows the cornmeal to fully hydrate, which softens its texture and enhances the crumb, giving your cornbread that classic, melt-in-your-mouth feel.

BUTTERMILK – Using buttermilk at room temperature prevents melted butter from seizing up into clumps. If you forgot to take it out early, just warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.

A HINT OF HONEY – For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey. This not only brings out the natural sweetness of the cornmeal but also helps keep the bread moist.

USE A PREHEATED PAN FOR A CRISPIER EDGE – If you like your cornbread with a crispy, golden crust, preheat the pan in the oven for a few minutes before adding the batter. This small step creates a satisfying crunch around the edges.