Cornbread is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, known for its golden crust and tender, crumbly texture. This classic Southern-style cornbread recipe captures the essence of homemade comfort food, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether served alongside a hearty bowl of chili, enjoyed with fried chicken, or simply slathered with butter, it brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this cornbread is easy to whip up and sure to please family and friends alike. You’ll love its slightly sweet flavor, perfect balance of moisture, and delightful crunch. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why this cornbread deserves a spot in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Southern-Style Cornbread
- Quick and Easy: Whips up in just 30 minutes.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a standalone snack.
- Comforting and Satisfying: A warm, hearty accompaniment to meals.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by children and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easily add ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or a cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Ensure there are no lumps for an even texture.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the milk and vegetable oil (or melted butter).
- Stir until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix – a few lumps are okay.
Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
- Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Additions: Spice it up by adding jalapeños, cheese, or cooked bacon.
- Swap Ingredients: Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for added richness.
- Sweetness: Adjust the sugar according to your taste; you can even omit it for a savory version.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make cornbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day before baking.
2. How should I store leftover cornbread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze cornbread?
Yes, cornbread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months.
4. What can I use instead of milk?
You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
- Drinks: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a light lager.
- Sides: Serve with collard greens, BBQ ribs, or a fresh garden salad.
- Sauces: Drizzle with honey or serve alongside a chili or stew for a perfect match.
Final Thoughts
This classic Southern-style cornbread recipe is sure to become a family favorite, with its delightful texture and buttery flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a hearty meal or as a sweet snack, it’s a versatile dish that can easily accommodate your preferences. We encourage you to try it out and share your own variations or comments below! Happy baking!
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Classic Southern-Style Cornbread
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A beloved Southern staple, this classic cornbread is easy to make, perfectly tender, and slightly sweet, making it a comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking dish or cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using), ensuring there are no lumps.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk and vegetable oil (or melted butter) until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
You can add jalapeños, cheese, or cooked bacon for extra flavor. Use buttermilk for added richness or replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg