A Simple Cornbread Recipe for a Moist, Tender Crumb

Oh, the comforting aroma of freshly baked cornbread! It instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, a place where simple ingredients transformed into pure magic. There’s something truly special about a homemade cornbread recipe – that golden crust, the tender crumb, and the subtly sweet flavor that just whispers warmth and home. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a hug on a plate, a staple that brings a smile to everyone’s face.

I remember those afternoons, my small hands helping Nana measure cornmeal, the rhythmic clink of spoons against bowls. Each batch was an adventure, a lesson in patience and love. Through years of experimenting and countless batches, I’ve refined what I believe is the perfect cornbread recipe, one that captures that nostalgic essence while being incredibly easy to achieve. From my kitchen to yours, this recipe is a testament to the joy of simple baking.

This particular cornbread recipe is not only wonderfully easy to bake, making it perfect for both seasoned pros and budding bakers, but it’s also incredibly family-friendly, guaranteed to become a beloved staple at your table. My top tip? Always ensure your skillet is piping hot before pouring in the batter – it’s the secret to that irresistible crispy edge!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

To create this delightful cornbread recipe, we rely on a few humble stars. The yellow cornmeal lends its signature texture and golden hue, while buttermilk is my secret for an impossibly moist and tender crumb. And a generous amount of melted unsalted butter? Well, that just ensures every bite is rich with flavor, perfectly balancing the slight sweetness. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card just below!

How to Make cornbread recipe

Whipping up this golden cornbread recipe is a breeze, truly. You’ll start by preheating your oven and skillet, then whisking together the dry ingredients, followed by the wet. Gently combine them until just mixed, pour the luscious batter into that sizzling hot skillet, and let the oven work its magic. Before you know it, you’ll have a beautifully golden, incredibly moist cornbread ready to enjoy.

Golden Skillet Cornbread

This classic golden skillet cornbread is perfectly crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and boasts a rich, comforting flavor. It’s the ideal accompaniment to any hearty soup or chili.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cornbread

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal medium grind
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar optional, for a touch of sweetness
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled slightly, or vegetable oil

For the Skillet

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease

Equipment

• 10-inch Cast Iron Skillet
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven Mitts

Method

 

Preheat Oven & Skillet

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or bacon grease to the skillet and let it heat up for at least 10 minutes.

Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, lightly beaten egg, and melted butter (or vegetable oil).

Combine Wet and Dry

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cornbread.

Pour into Hot Skillet

1. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Swirl the hot oil around to coat the bottom and sides evenly. Pour the cornbread batter directly into the hot skillet. The batter should sizzle as it hits the hot oil.

Bake

1. Immediately return the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool & Serve

1. Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for about 5-10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack or cutting board. Cut into wedges and serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside your favorite soup or chili.

Notes

For an extra crispy crust, ensure your cast iron skillet and oil are very hot before adding the batter.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own: add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill the rest of the way to 1 cup with milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
Leftover cornbread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.

Pro Tips for Making This cornbread recipe

Baking is an art and a science, and over the years, I’ve gathered a few tricks for the perfect cornbread recipe that I simply must share. These little nudges can make all the difference, ensuring your skillet cornbread turns out beautifully every single time.

My Secret Trick: Always preheat your cast iron skillet in the oven while it’s preheating. This creates an incredibly crispy, golden crust on your cornbread that is absolutely divine and adds so much character to this simple cornbread recipe.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are moistened. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense cornbread instead of the tender crumb we’re aiming for.
• Buttermilk is Key: Resist the urge to substitute buttermilk with regular milk if you can. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, giving our cornbread its signature lift and incredibly moist texture. If you’re out, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Check for Doneness: Cornbread is often done when the top is golden brown and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Be mindful not to overbake, as that can lead to a dry texture.

Fun Variations for cornbread recipe

One of the most delightful things about a classic cornbread recipe is how wonderfully it adapts to little tweaks and additions. It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch! My friend Sarah always begs me to make a batch with a hint of something extra, depending on her mood.

Savory Twists

For those who love a bit of a kick, try adding 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) to the batter before baking. It’s a game-changer when served alongside a hearty chili or stew.

Sweet Enhancements

If you lean towards a sweeter cornbread recipe, consider stirring in a tablespoon or two of honey or maple syrup with the wet ingredients. You could also fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen (not thawed) blueberries for a delightful fruity twist that my children adore for breakfast.

Herbaceous Notes

A small handful of fresh, finely chopped herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme can add an unexpected depth of flavor. About 1-2 tablespoons is usually enough to elevate the taste without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the corn.

What to Serve With cornbread recipe

This versatile cornbread recipe is truly a chameleon on the table, pairing beautifully with so many dishes. It’s not just a side; it’s an essential companion that completes a meal. My mom always had a big pot of soup simmering, and you can bet a warm slice of cornbread was always nearby.

• Hearty Soups and Stews: Nothing quite beats tearing off a piece of warm cornbread and dunking it into a comforting bowl of chili or a robust beef stew. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the cornbread soaks up all that delicious broth.
• Pulled Pork or BBQ: For a truly Southern-inspired meal, serve your golden skillet cornbread recipe alongside tender pulled pork, BBQ ribs, or smoked chicken. It provides the perfect balance to the rich, smoky flavors.
• Simple Toppings: Sometimes, less is more. A generous smear of honey butter or a drizzle of warm maple syrup can transform a plain slice into a decadent treat. I also love a dollop of homemade jam, especially a peach or blackberry preserve.
• Weekend Brunch: This cornbread makes a fantastic addition to any brunch spread. It’s wonderful served alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a side of fresh fruit for a comforting start to your day.

How to Store cornbread recipe

Ensuring your delicious cornbread recipe stays fresh is key to enjoying it for days to come. Proper storage helps maintain that wonderful texture and flavor you worked so hard to achieve. Over the years, I’ve found a few simple ways to keep it tasting just-baked.

Room Temperature Storage

Once completely cooled, your cornbread recipe can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days. The best way to do this is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This keeps it from drying out and losing its tender crumb.

Refrigeration for Longer

If you want your cornbread to last a bit longer, up to about a week, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This is especially useful in warmer climates or if your cornbread contains any moist additions.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

For long-term storage, cornbread freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature, then warm gently in the oven or microwave. My personal tip for reheating is to pop it in a warm oven for about 10-15 minutes; it helps bring back that lovely crust and tender interior.

Nutritional Benefits

While we often think of desserts as pure indulgence, this cornbread recipe offers some wholesome goodness too! Yellow cornmeal, a primary ingredient, provides dietary fiber, which is great for digestion, and it contains some beneficial antioxidants. The egg adds a touch of protein, while buttermilk contributes calcium. It’s a wonderful example of how a simple, comforting treat can be both satisfying and nourishing, embodying my philosophy of baking with wholesome, familiar ingredients.

FAQs

Faq 1

Why is my cornbread dry?
Dry cornbread usually results from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure you mix only until the ingredients are just combined and remove the cornbread from the oven as soon as a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Faq 2

Can I make this cornbread recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure your cornmeal is also certified gluten-free, as some brands may have cross-contamination.

Faq 3

What’s the best way to get a crispy crust on my cornbread?
The secret to a wonderfully crispy crust is a piping hot cast iron skillet. Preheat your skillet in the oven while it warms up, then add a tablespoon of melted butter or oil just before pouring in the batter.

Faq 4

Can I prepare the cornbread batter ahead of time?
It’s best to mix and bake this cornbread recipe batter immediately. The leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) start working as soon as they’re combined with the wet ingredients, and waiting too long can result in a less fluffy texture.

There you have it, my dear friends—a cornbread recipe that truly embodies the warmth and comfort of home. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty meal or simply enjoying a slice with a pat of butter, I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. Baking is about more than just ingredients; it’s about creating memories, sharing love, and bringing people together, one sweet, simple treat at a time. Happy baking!