There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cornbread wafting through your kitchen. This Easy Homemade Cornbread Recipe delivers a golden, crumbly exterior with a tender, moist center that practically melts in your mouth. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a slice of warm, buttery goodness that pairs perfectly with chili, soups, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet treat.
Packed with a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, this cornbread is a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. The crisp edges and soft, fluffy interior create a texture that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Cornbread
- 1 cup flour (all-purpose works best)
- 1 cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
- ⅔ cup sugar (adjust to taste or substitute with honey)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or use kosher salt for a milder flavor)
- 3½ teaspoons baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for best results)
- 1 egg (room temperature recommended)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk for richness, or use a dairy-free alternative)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted butter or coconut oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready when you are.
- Prepare the pan by spraying a 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can grease it lightly with butter or oil.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Add the wet ingredients: Crack in the egg, pour in the milk and vegetable oil. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, but avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown and slightly pulling away from the pan.
- Cool briefly before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
This easy homemade cornbread is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a little extra flair! Try drizzling it with honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. For a savory twist, spread on some herb butter or serve with a side of spicy chili. If you’re feeling adventurous, top it with a dollop of whipped honey butter (just mix equal parts softened butter and honey).
How to Store and Reheat Your Cornbread
To keep your cornbread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds. Pro tip: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the bread before reheating to keep it moist!
Recipe Variations to Spice Things Up
Customize your cornbread to suit your taste! Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 diced jalapeño for a cheesy, spicy kick. For a sweeter version, mix in ½ cup of corn kernels or 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. If you’re gluten-free, swap the flour for a gluten-free blend—just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
Short on time? Prep your dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in a ziplock bag for quick mixing later. You can also use a muffin tin instead of a cake pan to reduce baking time to 15-18 minutes. For an even quicker option, try a preheated cast-iron skillet—it’ll give your cornbread a crispy crust and speed up the cooking process!
Common Questions Answered
Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk? Absolutely! Swap the milk for 1 cup of buttermilk to add a tangy flavor and extra moisture. What if I don’t have a 9-inch pan? No problem! Use an 8×8-inch square pan or adjust the baking time slightly. And yes, you can make this recipe in a muffin tin—just fill each cup ⅔ full and bake for 15-18 minutes.
Easy Homemade Cornbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Spray a 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt and baking powder.
- Stir in egg, milk and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.