The Ultimate Buttermilk Cornbread: Simple, Delicious, and Ready in Minutes

Photo byAngie Bright

There's something truly comforting about the smell of freshly baked cornbread wafting through the kitchen. Whether served as a side to a warm bowl of chili or paired with a hearty stew, cornbread is a classic that brings back memories of home-cooked meals shared with family and friends. And when it comes to simplicity and flavor, this easy buttermilk cornbread recipe takes the cake. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a holiday feast.

What makes this recipe stand out is its delightful balance of textures. The buttermilk adds a slight tang, while the melted butter ensures a moist and tender crumb. The combination of cornmeal and flour gives the bread just the right amount of structure, and a hint of sugar adds subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile.

Easy Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or a cast-iron skillet for that perfect crispy edge.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The combination of these dry ingredients forms the backbone of the cornbread's texture.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until everything is well combined. This is where the rich flavors start to come together.
4. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently, being careful not to overmix—this helps keep the cornbread tender and soft.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet, spreading it evenly across the surface.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Once baked, let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This cornbread pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of dishes, from grilled meats to savory soups. It's a versatile side dish that also shines on its own, especially with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter.

Why This Cornbread Recipe Works The magic of this cornbread lies in the balance between the tanginess of the buttermilk and the richness of the butter. The buttermilk not only brings a tender texture to the bread but also reacts with the baking soda, helping it rise and become light and fluffy. Meanwhile, the butter adds that familiar, comforting richness, while the cornmeal gives the bread a slight crunch.

Whether you're looking for a quick side for dinner or a crowd-pleaser for a potluck, this easy buttermilk cornbread recipe is sure to hit the spot. Its simple ingredients and easy steps make it perfect for bakers of all levels. So, next time you're craving a warm, buttery slice of cornbread, give this recipe a try—you won't be disappointed!

For your easy buttermilk cornbread recipe, here are a few excellent sources that offer similar variations:

1. AllRecipes' Grandmother's Buttermilk Cornbread: This recipe highlights a simple, rich cornbread using classic ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and eggs. It's praised for its moist texture and slight sweetness, making it a favorite with many families. You can find the full details here​(Allrecipes).
2. Golden Sweet Cornbread: If you're looking for a sweeter version, AllRecipes also features a popular "Golden Sweet Cornbread" recipe. This one is loved for its subtle sweetness, which pairs well with savory dishes like chili. It uses a combination of cornmeal and flour, and you can check it out here​(Allrecipes).
3. Cast Iron Skillet Buttermilk Cornbread: For those who prefer a savory, non-sweet version, this recipe is baked in a cast iron skillet to get that perfect crispy crust. It uses both white and yellow cornmeal for texture and skips the sugar entirely. You can explore this recipe here​(Allrecipes).

These links will give you more inspiration and step-by-step instructions if you're looking to adjust your cornbread to suit your taste!