The Best Homemade Best Cornbread Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cornbread filling your kitchen! This recipe is super easy to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have. You’ll love how it’s perfectly golden on the outside and moist on the inside every time. It pairs wonderfully with chili, soup, or just a drizzle of honey. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids involved in baking—they’ll love mixing the batter!
Recipe

This homemade cornbread recipe is simple to make and yields a deliciously moist and flavorful bread that pairs perfectly with soups, chili, or as a standalone treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch round pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil or melted butter, and egg. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes:
For a richer flavor, you can substitute buttermilk for regular milk. Add-ins like cheddar cheese, jalapeños, or corn kernels can be folded into the batter for variation.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 8-inch square baking pan or 9-inch round pan
- Oven
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
This homemade cornbread recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 198 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2g |
| Cholesterol | 18mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Total Carbs | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 4g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade cornbread with classic comfort foods like chili or barbecue, but it’s just as tasty with savory sides like collard greens or black-eyed peas. The sweetness of the cornbread balances out rich, hearty dishes, making every bite even better. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with these pairings—they’re tried and true!
Classic Comfort Food Pairings
When you’ve got a warm slice of homemade cornbread on your plate, it’s almost impossible not to pair it with something equally comforting. I love crumbling it into a bowl of chili—its sweetness balances the spicy, hearty flavors perfectly. A drizzle of honey turns it into a simple, sweet treat, or slather it with butter for pure indulgence. It’s also fantastic alongside a steaming bowl of soup, like creamy potato or hearty vegetable. And don’t forget fried chicken—cornbread’s crumbly texture soaks up all those delicious juices. These pairings turn a simple side into a meal that feels like a hug.
Savory Side Dish Options
Homemade cornbread shines as a fantastic side dish, especially when paired with savory options that complement its slightly sweet, crumbly texture. I love serving it with hearty chili—the warmth of the spices balances the bread’s sweetness perfectly. Smoky baked beans or a tangy collard greens dish also work wonders, adding depth to each bite. For something lighter, try a crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette. And don’t forget fried chicken—the crispy, salty crust pairs magically with soft cornbread. These combos turn a simple meal into something special, making every bite feel cozy and satisfying.