There is no side dish more iconic to American comfort food than a slice of warm, golden cornbread. The perfect cornbread should have a slightly sweet profile, a moist crumb, and a signature crisp edge. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between the crumbly texture of cornmeal and the soft structure of a cake. Whether you are serving it with a bowl of chili or drizzling it with honey for breakfast, this is the only version you will ever need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for BBQ Sides
Cornbread is the ultimate companion for barbecue. Its ability to soak up sauces and complement smoky meats makes it a staple at every summer gathering. It is also incredibly fast to whip up, requiring no rising time.
Golden & Buttery Highlights
The use of real butter and buttermilk creates a rich, tangy flavor that oil-based recipes simply cannot match. The cornmeal provides a pleasant grittiness and a vibrant yellow color that looks beautiful on any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a pan.
- Whisk dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Pour into pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Yellow cornmeal provides the classic flavor, while all-purpose flour keeps the bread from being too crumbly. Buttermilk is the secret weapon here; its acidity reacts with the baking soda to create a light rise.
Smart Substitutions
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of regular milk. For a savory twist, stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If you prefer a more “Southern” style, reduce the sugar by half.
| Variation | Add-in | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Honey Butter | 2 tbsp Honey | Sweet/Floral |
| Mexican Style | Jalapeños | Savory/Spicy |
| Cheesy | Sharp Cheddar | Rich/Salty |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease an 8-inch square pan with butter. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cooking Phase
In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, egg, and buttermilk together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not over-mix! Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The secret to the best crispy edges is to use a cast-iron skillet. Place the greased skillet in the oven while it preheats. When you pour the batter into the hot pan, it will sizzle and immediately begin to form a crunchy crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake is over-mixing the batter. Stir until the flour just disappears and stop immediately. Over-mixing develops gluten, which will make your cornbread tough and dry.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve the cornbread warm with a small bowl of whipped honey butter on the side.
Pairing Suggestions
This moist cornbread is the perfect partner for Hamburger Meat Recipes Dinner Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe. The sweetness of the bread balances the savory notes of the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why is my cornbread dry?
You may have baked it too long. Ensure you check it at the 20-minute mark.
Q2: Can I use white cornmeal?
Yes, but yellow cornmeal is traditional for that vibrant color and robust flavor.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in foil and keep at room temperature for 2 days.
Conclusion
This Cornbread Recipe Easy Moist Best Cornbread Recipe is a classic for a reason. It is simple, reliable, and brings a touch of homemade warmth to any meal. By using buttermilk and real butter, you ensure a flavor and texture that far surpasses any boxed mix.
