Ah, cornbread – the perfect companion to a warm bowl of chili or a hearty soup. But it’s not just for soups and stews! Cornbread can be a delightful addition to any meal, from breakfast to dinner. And with its versatility in terms of ingredients and flavors, there’s truly something for everyone.
From classic Southern buttermilk cornbread to sweet honey butter cornbread, and even vegan and gluten-free options, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that will satisfy your cornbread cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight. In this article, we’ll explore the world of cornbread and share our favorite recipes for every occasion.
Classic Southern Buttermilk Cornbread
Classic Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe
A staple of Southern cuisine, this moist and flavorful cornbread is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Honey Butter Cornbread
Moist and flavorful, this sweet honey butter cornbread is perfect for a warm evening or as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, egg, and honey. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño and Cheddar Cornbread
Elevate your snack game with this spicy and savory cornbread recipe that combines the heat of jalapeños with the richness of cheddar cheese. Perfect for accompanying chili, soups, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, buttermilk, and chopped jalapeño. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Cornbread with Bacon
Elevate your cornbread game with the rich flavor of crispy bacon and a golden-brown skillet. This recipe is perfect for brunch, dinner, or even as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and crumbled bacon.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and stir until smooth.
6. Pour the batter into a 10-inch oven-safe skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Coconut Cornbread
Moist and flavorful, this vegan coconut cornbread is perfect for a cozy evening or as a side dish for your favorite meals. With the added bonus of coconut flakes adding a subtle tropical twist, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, canola oil, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in coconut flakes.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Muffins with Maple Glaze
These moist and flavorful cornbread muffins are elevated by a rich maple glaze, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Maple Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over warm muffins.
Cornbread Dressing with Herbs
This savory cornbread dressing is infused with fresh herbs and perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, parsley, sage, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Cornbread
Get ready to fiesta with this flavorful cornbread that combines the warmth of Mexico with the comfort of a classic American bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, and corn kernels.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro (if using).
8. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread recipe is a staple for any gluten-free diet. Made with simple ingredients and easy to follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously tender and crumbly cornbread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, almond flour, coconut sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter or oil.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Chili Pie
A hearty twist on traditional chili, this Cornbread Chili Pie combines the flavors of a warm, comforting bowl of chili with the satisfying crunch of cornbread. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked ground beef or ground turkey
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chili powder and cumin; stir to combine.
4. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and water.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions.
7. Pour the prepared cornbread batter over the chili mixture in the skillet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skillet Cornbread with Honey Drizzle
Warm up your mealtime with this moist and flavorful skillet cornbread, topped with a sweet and sticky honey drizzle. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Drizzle with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Waffles with Fried Chicken
Get ready for a twist on classic comfort food! These crispy cornbread waffles are the perfect base for tender and juicy fried chicken, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying chicken
– Fried chicken pieces (your favorite recipe or store-bought)
– Butter or margarine, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and buttermilk.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook waffles in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, fry chicken pieces according to your favorite recipe (or store-bought).
7. Assemble by placing fried chicken on top of a waffle, drizzling with melted butter or margarine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on waffle iron and frying time)
Cornbread Taco Casserole
A twist on traditional taco night, this casserole combines the comforting warmth of cornbread with the bold flavors of a taco. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add melted butter, milk, and eggs; stir until smooth.
3. Brown ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning. Drain excess fat.
4. Assemble the casserole by spreading half of the cornbread mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by half of the browned meat mixture, and finally 2-3 tortillas torn into pieces.
5. Repeat layers: remaining cornbread mixture, remaining meat mixture, and final layer of tortilla pieces.
6. Top with shredded cheese and optional toppings (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and the casserole is hot throughout.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, milk, and lemon juice.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Pancakes with Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy cornbread pancakes, topped with a rich and sticky syrup. This breakfast treat combines the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread with the classic sweetness of pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Syrup (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with syrup of your choice.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Creamed Corn Cornbread
This sweet and savory cornbread is perfect for a cozy evening or as a side dish for your favorite comfort foods. The addition of creamed corn adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup creamed corn (homemade or store-bought)
– Butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with melted butter.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, cream, eggs, and creamed corn until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cornbread
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Cornbread recipe, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Salad with Avocado Dressing
This sweet and savory salad combines crispy cornbread croutons with a medley of fresh vegetables, all tied together by a creamy avocado dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss cornbread crumbs with a pinch of salt and spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. In a blender or food processor, puree diced avocado with lime juice until smooth.
4. Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with toasted cornbread crumbs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
This recipe combines the warm comfort of cornbread with the rich flavors of bourbon, perfect for a cozy evening gathering. The pudding’s crumbly texture and sweet, buttery taste are elevated by a tangy bourbon sauce that adds depth and complexity.
Ingredients:
For the Cornbread Pudding:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Bourbon Sauce:
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, heavy cream, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. For the bourbon sauce, combine bourbon whiskey, heavy cream, butter, and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until thickened slightly.
5. Serve warm cornbread pudding with bourbon sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes for pudding, 10-15 minutes for sauce.
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage
Elevate your holiday meal with this savory cornbread stuffing infused with spicy sausage and fresh herbs. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of cornbread with the richness of sausage, perfect for a cozy gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add butter, onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cornbread, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix in chicken broth until just moistened.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of cornbread with these 20 delicious recipes for every occasion. From classic Southern buttermilk cornbread to sweet honey butter and spicy jalapeño options, there’s something for everyone. Try skillet cornbread with bacon, vegan coconut cornbread, or gluten-free variations. Or, get creative with cornbread muffins with maple glaze, dressing with herbs, or tacos. The possibilities are endless! Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping main course, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.
