The Best Homemade Cornbread Recipe

Savor the secret to perfect golden cornbread—moist, tender, and irresistibly buttery—with this easy recipe that’ll make you ditch the box mix forever.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade cornbread recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with its golden crust and tender crumb that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re pairing it with chili or enjoying it with honey butter, it’s sure to become a favorite.

  • Easy to make—just mix, pour, and bake for a fuss-free side dish.
  • Versatile—works as a sweet or savory treat, depending on your toppings.
  • Comforting flavor—warm, buttery, and slightly sweet, like a hug in every bite.

Recipe

golden crust cornbread recipe

Cornbread is a classic comfort food that’s simple to make and pairs perfectly with soups, stews, or as a standalone treat. This recipe yields a moist, slightly sweet cornbread with a golden crust.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup yellow cornmeal

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk

1 large egg

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch round pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, egg, and melted butter.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes:

For a richer flavor, substitute buttermilk for regular milk. Add 1/2 cup of corn kernels or shredded cheese for extra texture and taste.

Equipment:

8-inch square baking pan or 9-inch round pan, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.

Time:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20–25 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

8–10 slices

Nutrition

This homemade cornbread recipe is a delightful treat with a straightforward nutritional profile. Below is the detailed nutrition information.

Serving SizeCaloriesFatCarbohydratesProteinFiberSugar
1 piece (1/12)220 kcal8g33g4g1g12g

What To Serve With It

I love serving my homemade cornbread with savory pairings like chili or collard greens for a hearty meal, but it’s just as delicious with sweet combinations like honey or jam for a cozy treat. I’ve found that it’s versatile enough to suit any mood or occasion. Sometimes, I even enjoy it warm with a pat of butter for the simplest, most satisfying snack.

Savory Pairings

There’s nothing quite like warm, buttery cornbread fresh from the oven, but if you’re wondering what to serve alongside it, I’ve got you covered. My go-to savory pairings include hearty chili, loaded with beans and spices, or a creamy bowl of baked beans for a classic Southern touch. A pot of slow-cooked collard greens or black-eyed peas adds a smoky, earthy flavor that complements the cornbread’s sweetness. For a lighter option, try a tangy coleslaw or a garden-fresh tomato salad. And don’t forget fried chicken or pulled pork—it’s a match made in comfort food heaven. Perfect every time!

Sweet Combinations

If you’ve ever craved something sweet to balance the rich, crumbly goodness of cornbread, you’re not alone—I love drizzling mine with honey or spreading a generous layer of cinnamon butter for a cozy treat. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream turn it into dessert, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds just enough sweetness. Sometimes, I’ll pair it with a warm apple compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Jam or preserves work wonders too, especially raspberry or peach. Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these combos make cornbread feel like a delightful treat.

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