Homemade Southern Cornbread

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Golden, buttery, and with just the right hint of sweetness, this Homemade Southern Cornbread is the kind of comfort food that takes you straight to a Southern grandma’s kitchen. Baked to perfection with a tender crumb and golden crust, it pairs effortlessly with chili, collard greens, or a drizzle of honey for breakfast.

This recipe skips the box mix and gives you the real deal from scratch. It’s simple enough for weeknights, but worthy of holiday tables too. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or have cornbread running through your veins, this recipe is about to become your go-to.

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What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?

For authentic Southern-style cornbread, you’ll want to use fine or medium ground yellow cornmeal. It offers a sweet, hearty texture and a beautiful golden color. Avoid coarse cornmeal as it can make the bread gritty, and skip self-rising cornmeal since we’re adding leavening separately for a perfect rise.

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Ingredients for the Homemade Southern Cornbread

Yellow Cornmeal – This is the backbone of the recipe, giving it that earthy, slightly sweet flavor and rustic texture.

All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure and balances the coarse texture of cornmeal for a tender crumb.

Granulated Sugar – Just a touch enhances the natural corn flavor without making it a sweet bread.

Baking Powder – The leavening hero that gives your cornbread a light and fluffy lift.

Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and balancing the sweetness.

Buttermilk – Brings tang, richness, and moisture. It also reacts with the baking powder for rise.

Eggs – Help bind everything together and create a cohesive, soft texture.

Unsalted Butter – Melted butter adds rich flavor and keeps the cornbread moist with a golden crust.

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How To Make the Homemade Southern Cornbread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet with butter or oil. Place it in the oven while you prepare the batter to get that crispy, golden edge.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of yellow cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup of buttermilk with 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until fully combined.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Pour the batter into your preheated pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the cornbread rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Serving and Storing Your Cornbread

Cornbread is best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Leftovers can be wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or microwave individual slices for about 20 seconds.

If you want to freeze it, wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

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What to Serve With Homemade Southern Cornbread?

Chili or Stew

The classic combo! Cornbread soaks up spicy, meaty juices like a dream.

Southern Collard Greens

That smoky, vinegary pot liquor and a warm slice of cornbread? Perfect match.

Honey Butter or Maple Drizzle

For a sweet breakfast or brunch twist, smear on some whipped honey butter or maple syrup.

Fried Chicken

Crispy fried chicken next to soft, crumbly cornbread makes for a craveable Southern meal.

Creamy Soups

Try pairing it with creamy chicken soup or loaded potato soup for comforting vibes.

BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork

The sweetness and texture of cornbread balance rich, smoky meats beautifully.

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Want More Bread Ideas?

If you’re loving the cozy vibes of cornbread, here are more bakes you’ll want to try:

• Light & Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia Recipe
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet for a perfect meal pairing.
• Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings to enjoy with a side of cornbread.
• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for dunking those corners.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a sprinkle of jalapeño or shredded cheddar mixed in? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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