This Easy Homemade Cornbread is a buttery, sweet, and perfectly textured classic that’s ready in under an hour. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for chili or enjoying it warm with a pat of butter, this recipe is simple, foolproof, and utterly delicious. Made with pantry staples, it’s the perfect addition to any meal!
Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1½ cups full-fat buttermilk
- 1½ cups yellow cornmeal
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
- If using a cast iron skillet, place it in the oven to preheat while you prepare the batter. This helps create a crispy, golden crust. Alternatively, grease a 13×9-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and buttermilk until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- Add the cornmeal, sugar, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients.
- Whisk or fold gently until the batter is completely combined and free of lumps. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until everything is incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan
- If using a cast iron skillet, carefully remove it from the oven (it will be hot!) and swirl a little butter or oil around the bottom to coat it evenly.
- Pour the batter into the preheated skillet or prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–28 minutes if using a cast iron skillet, or 20–22 minutes if using a casserole dish.
- The cornbread is done when the top is golden brown, the edges are slightly crisp, and the center is firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm with a pat of butter, drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite comfort food like chili, soup, or barbecue.
Tips for Success
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1½ cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to your preference. Reduce it to ½ cup for a less sweet version, or increase it to 1 cup for a sweeter cornbread.
- Add-Ins: Stir in extras like diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, or cooked bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days . Reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a warm, fresh taste.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Homemade Cornbread strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, with a tender crumb and a golden, crispy crust. The use of buttermilk ensures a moist texture, while the sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re baking it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic touch or in a casserole dish for convenience, this cornbread is versatile, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. Dive into this buttery delight and savor every bite of its homemade goodness!