The Best Homemade Cornbread Recipe

Just like grandma used to make, this cornbread recipe delivers moist, golden perfection—discover the secret ingredient that takes it to the next level.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade cornbread recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make with just a few basic ingredients.

  • Moist and tender texture—no dry crumbs here, just fluffy, golden goodness.
  • Versatile and customizable—add honey, jalapeños, or cheese for extra flavor.
  • Quick to bake—ready in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy it warm from the oven.

Recipe

golden sweet cornbread recipe

Cornbread is a classic, comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with soups, stews, or barbecue. This simple recipe yields a slightly sweet, tender crumb with a golden crust.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or cast-iron skillet.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  7. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Notes:

  • For a richer flavor, substitute buttermilk for regular milk.
  • Add 1/2 cup corn kernels or diced jalapeños for texture and heat.

Equipment:

  • 8-inch square baking pan or cast-iron skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk

Time:

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 20–25 minutes

Cuisine: American

Serving: 9 pieces

Nutrition

This homemade cornbread recipe provides a balance of essential nutrients in each serving. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per slice:

CaloriesTotal FatSaturated FatCholesterolSodiumTotal CarbsDietary FiberSugarsProtein
2008g4g35mg300mg28g1g6g4g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my cornbread with savory dishes like chili or BBQ, as they bring out its rich, hearty flavor. For something sweeter, I’ll drizzle honey on top or serve it alongside fresh fruit for a tasty contrast. It’s fun to mix and match, and I’m always excited to see what combinations work best.

Savory Pairings

When I think about the best dishes to serve with cornbread, my mind instantly goes to hearty, comforting meals that complement its slightly sweet, crumbly texture. I love pairing it with chili, where the tangy, spicy flavors balance the cornbread’s richness. Stews, like beef or vegetable, are another favorite—dipping a warm piece into the broth is pure comfort. Barbecue ribs or pulled pork also work wonders, as the smokiness enhances the cornbread’s sweetness. For something lighter, a fresh green salad with a zesty dressing adds a nice contrast. These pairings make cornbread shine in every bite.

Sweet Combos

Cornbread isn’t just for savory dishes—it’s also a star in sweet pairings that turn it into a dessert or a cozy snack. I love crumbling warm cornbread over vanilla ice cream, drizzling it with honey, or topping it with fresh berries and whipped cream. For breakfast, I’ll slather it with jam or cinnamon butter, and sometimes I’ll even bake it into muffins with chocolate chips. A slice toasted with maple syrup? Pure comfort. Don’t forget to pair it with a cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa—it’s like a hug in food form. Trust me, these combos are game-changers.

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