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The Best Moist Buttermilk Cornbread: A Classic Southern Side

A close-up shot showing a slice of golden buttermilk cornbread being lifted from the rest of the loaf in a black cast iron skillet.

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You need this easy buttermilk cornbread recipe for a moist, tender crumb and crispy edges. It is the perfect classic American side dish for chili or barbecue.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweeter cornbread)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing the skillet

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats. This step creates the signature crispy crust.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; do not overmix. A few lumps are fine.
  5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add about 2 tablespoons of butter to the hot skillet and swirl it around until the butter is melted and coats the bottom and sides.
  6. Pour the melted butter into the batter and stir quickly to incorporate.
  7. Immediately pour the batter into the hot, buttered skillet.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

  • For extra crispy edges, ensure your cast iron skillet is very hot before adding the batter.
  • If you prefer a savory cornbread, reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or omit it entirely.
  • This cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soups, or pulled pork barbecue.

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