Description
This Easy Southern Cornbread with Buttermilk is a classic, moist, and flavorful bread made with simple ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and a touch of sugar. Baked in a hot cast-iron skillet, it develops a crispy golden crust and tender interior, perfect as a side dish for any Southern meal or comfort food occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp bacon grease or butter (for greasing skillet)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Skillet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a cast-iron skillet inside the oven so it becomes very hot, ensuring a crispy crust on the cornbread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and flavors.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until well combined to create a smooth batter base.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and light.
- Prepare the Hot Skillet: Carefully remove the hot cast-iron skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Add the bacon grease or butter, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Immediately pour the batter into the hot skillet; it should sizzle upon contact, which helps form a crisp crust. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cornbread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as a delicious side to your favorite Southern dishes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir in 1/2 cup corn kernels or shredded cheddar cheese into the batter before baking.
- To achieve a crispier crust, ensure the cast-iron skillet is very hot before adding the batter.
- Leftovers can be wrapped tightly and reheated, or repurposed into stuffing for another meal.
