When it comes to comforting, homemade baked goods, few things beat a warm slice of Southern-style cornbread. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty plate of fried chicken and greens or as a sweet complement to a glass of cold milk, this classic American dish is always a crowd-pleaser. And in the South, where tradition meets innovation, there’s no shortage of creative twists on the classic recipe. From savory additions like crispy bacon and cheddar cheese to sweet surprises like honey butter and maple syrup, these 20 Southern cornbread recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. So go ahead, grab a glass of sweet tea, and get ready to dive into some good ol’ fashioned comfort food.
Classic Buttermilk Southern Cornbread
Classic Buttermilk Southern Cornbread Recipe
Get ready to savor a warm, crumbly, and utterly comforting classic cornbread recipe that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite comfort foods. This buttermilk-infused cornbread is a staple of Southern cuisine, with a rich history dating back to the 19th century.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Skillet Cornbread with Bacon
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of the South with this easy-to-make skillet cornbread infused with crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and crumbled bacon to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a 9-inch cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Honey Butter Cornbread
Sweet Honey Butter Cornbread Recipe
A classic Southern comfort food, this sweet honey butter cornbread is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals or as a standalone treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Freshly grated corn kernels for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Stir in honey until well incorporated.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Jalapeño Cheddar Southern Cornbread
Elevate your Southern comfort food game with this Jalapeño Cheddar Southern Cornbread recipe, adding a bold and spicy kick to the classic. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, buttermilk, diced jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing
This classic Southern recipe combines the comfort of cornbread with the warmth of herbs and spices, creating a delicious side dish perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, sautéed onion and garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the chicken broth and mix until the dressing is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Cornbread Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are a twist on traditional Southern cornbread, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, these muffins will transport you to the heart of Dixie.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Southern Cornbread
A classic Southern staple gets a gluten-free makeover! This cornbread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for accompanying your favorite barbecue dishes or as a side to your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Southern Cornbread
This vegan cornbread recipe is a game-changer for those looking to recreate the warm, comforting flavors of traditional Southern-style cornbread without compromising their dietary preferences. With its moist texture and subtle sweetness, this cornbread is sure to become a staple in your plant-based kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup
– 1 egg replacement (such as flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, oil, vinegar, maple syrup, and egg replacement.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes combine the warm spices of traditional Southern cornbread with the sweetness of pancake batter, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with honey or syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to cook all pancakes.
Cheesy Garlic Southern Cornbread
Get ready for a taste of the South with this moist and flavorful cornbread infused with the richness of cheese and pungency of garlic. This classic recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, stews, or as a side dish to your barbecue favorites.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup stone-ground cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, garlic, and sugar.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in grated cheese.
- Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Pudding
Southern Cornbread Pudding: A comforting twist on traditional cornbread, this pudding is perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, crumbled cornbread, and salt; stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Cornbread Salad
A twist on traditional cornbread dressing, this Southern Cornbread Salad combines crispy cornbread croutons with fresh greens, juicy chicken, and creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread, cubed (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss cornbread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, ranch dressing, red bell pepper, and blue cheese (if using).
4. Add the toasted cornbread croutons to the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoky BBQ Southern Cornbread
This classic Southern cornbread recipe gets a smoky twist with the addition of BBQ sauce and a hint of smoked paprika, perfect for accompanying your favorite barbecue dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and BBQ sauce.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Hoecakes
A Southern classic gets a crispy twist! These cornbread hoecakes are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, yellow cornmeal, buttermilk, egg, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of the mixture onto the skillet.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the edges are crispy and the centers are cooked through.
5. Repeat with remaining batter.
6. Serve warm with butter, jelly, or as a base for your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch (depending on number of hoecakes)
Maple Bourbon Southern Cornbread
Maple Bourbon Southern Cornbread Recipe
This moist and flavorful cornbread is infused with the richness of maple syrup and the warmth of bourbon, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (optional)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, egg, maple syrup, and bourbon (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Southern Cornbread Casserole
This Southern-inspired casserole combines the warm, crumbly goodness of cornbread with the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese; stir until smooth.
4. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the cornbread mixture.
6. Top with cooked macaroni, beaten egg, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Southern Cornbread
Warm up with a classic Southern staple infused with fresh herbs! This Herbed Southern Cornbread recipe combines the comforting flavors of cornbread with the bright, zesty notes of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme, chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add chopped rosemary and thyme to the wet ingredients; stir to combine.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Waffles
Get ready to elevate your brunch game with these crispy, golden waffles infused with the warmth of Southern cornbread. Perfect for topping with butter, syrup, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until waffles are golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on waffle iron and batch size)
Bacon and Green Onion Southern Cornbread
Elevate your cornbread game with this savory recipe that combines the classic flavors of bacon and green onion with a hint of Southern charm. Perfect for accompanying hearty meals or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (about 4-5 sprigs)
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, oil, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Biscuits
These tender, buttery biscuits are a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for serving alongside your favorite comfort foods or as a side to hearty stews and soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add heavy cream or buttermilk and stir until dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness.
6. Use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the South with these 20 delicious Southern cornbread recipes! From classic buttermilk to sweet honey butter and spicy jalapeño cheddar, there’s a recipe for every occasion. These mouthwatering recipes also include innovative twists like skillet cornbread with bacon, gluten-free and vegan options, and even Southern cornbread pancakes and waffles. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping dessert, this collection has got you covered. So go ahead, get your cornbread on, and experience the warm hospitality of the South!