Classic Southern Cornbread

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Craving something warm, golden, and full of down-home comfort? Classic Southern Cornbread is one of those timeless recipes that turns a simple dish into the heart of the meal. With its crisp edges, tender crumb, and just the right balance of savory and sweet, this cornbread pairs perfectly with everything from stews and chilis to fried chicken or a simple pat of butter.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or prepping for a holiday feast, this cornbread brings a touch of Southern hospitality to the table. It’s quick to mix, bakes beautifully in a cast-iron skillet or baking dish, and never fails to deliver those nostalgic, buttery bites.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To achieve that perfect golden crust and tender center, your tools are as important as your ingredients. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is the gold standard for Southern cornbread. It retains heat evenly, helping create those crispy edges that everyone fights over. If you don’t have one, a metal baking pan can work, but the texture will differ slightly.

Mixing bowls and a sturdy whisk or spatula are essential to bring the batter together smoothly. Measuring cups and spoons ensure your ratios are right—cornbread is forgiving, but balance matters. Lastly, a cooling rack helps maintain the texture by preventing sogginess on the bottom after baking.

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Ingredients for the Classic Southern Cornbread

• Cornmeal: This is the soul of the recipe. A medium or fine grind gives the bread its classic texture.
• All-purpose flour: Just a small amount to add structure without compromising the cornbread’s signature crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Together, they provide a good rise and lightness.
• Salt: Enhances the corn flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Buttermilk: A traditional Southern choice. It adds tang and keeps the bread moist.
• Eggs: They bind everything together and help with fluffiness.
• Unsalted butter: For flavor and that rich, moist bite.
• Sugar (optional): While some Southern purists skip it, a bit of sugar rounds out the flavor beautifully.

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How To Make the Classic Southern Cornbread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Skillet

Set your oven to 425°F. Place your cast iron skillet inside to heat up while you prepare the batter. This preheating is what creates that crisp, golden crust.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution before the wet ingredients join the mix.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the buttermilk and melted butter, whisking until fully combined.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing gently with a spatula. Don’t overmix—just until you see no streaks of flour. A few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Carefully remove your hot skillet from the oven and grease it with a bit of butter or oil. Pour the batter in and listen for that satisfying sizzle. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

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How to Serve and Store Classic Southern Cornbread

Cornbread is best served warm, ideally straight from the skillet. Pair it with chili, collard greens, or your favorite hearty stew. A drizzle of honey or smear of butter takes it to the next level.

To store, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly or store in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5. To reheat, a few minutes in the oven brings back the crisp edges.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Make sure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free as well.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes! Just add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk.

Is sugar traditional in Southern cornbread?

Traditionally, no—but many modern Southern kitchens add a bit for balance. Feel free to adjust to your taste.

How do I get the crispy edges?

Preheating your cast iron skillet is key. That instant sizzle when batter hits the pan ensures a crisp crust.

Can I freeze cornbread?

Absolutely. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a low oven.

What can I add to customize the flavor?

Try chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar, or crumbled bacon for flavorful twists.

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Want More Cornbread and Comfort Food Ideas?

You might also like the Southern Cornbread Poppers, a fun snackable twist that adds spice and crunch. Or dive into a creamy bowl of Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese to serve alongside.

The Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup is another rustic option that pairs beautifully with cornbread. For something meaty, the Wendy’s Chili Recipe is always a hit.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go sweet or savory? Did you use a skillet or baking dish? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bake it.

For more comfort food inspiration, check out my daily recipes on Pinterest: LadyPlate.

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