Golden Southern Cornbread is the soul-food side dish you didn’t know you needed. With its crispy edges and tender center, this cornbread adds a touch of warmth and comfort to any meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely Sunday feast.
All-purpose flour provides structure to the cornbread, helping it hold its shape while baking. Yellow cornmeal is the star of the show, giving the bread its characteristic texture and flavor. A bit of granulated sugar balances the savory elements and enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. Baking powder ensures the cornbread rises beautifully, creating that light, fluffy interior. A pinch of salt rounds out the flavors. Buttermilk adds tanginess and moisture, while unsalted butter brings richness and depth. Finally, eggs act as a binder, holding everything together.
This cornbread shines alongside a hearty bowl of chili or a plate of smoky BBQ ribs. Try crumbling it over a salad for a crunchy twist or serving it with a dollop of honey butter for a sweet finish.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting for it to heat up, take a 9-inch round cake pan and lightly grease it with some butter or non-stick spray to ensure the cornbread doesn’t stick.
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together until they’re well mixed and set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. Start with the buttermilk, then pour in the melted butter. Crack in the eggs and whisk until everything is well blended and uniform in texture.
Now, for the magic moment: pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently, just until the two are combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to be smooth with no visible streaks of flour.
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once out of the oven, let the cornbread cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to slice. Serve it warm for the best experience.