Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

Welcome to a taste of nostalgia with my family’s beloved recipe for Grandmother’s Buttermilk Cornbread. This classic dish holds a special place in my heart, evoking memories of cozy gatherings around the dinner table and the comforting aroma that filled my grandmother’s kitchen. Passed down through generations, this buttermilk cornbread recipe is a testament to the timeless tradition of homemade goodness.

With its golden, crispy edges and tender crumb, Grandmother’s Buttermilk Cornbread is a true labor of love that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to any meal. The gentle tang of buttermilk combined with the sweetness of cornmeal creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will transport you back to simpler times. Whether enjoyed alongside a hearty stew, a steaming bowl of chili, or as a sweet breakfast treat, this cornbread is sure to become a staple at your table.

So, gather your ingredients and preheat your oven—it’s time to recreate the magic of Grandmother’s Buttermilk Cornbread in your own kitchen. Let the memories of family traditions and the joy of homemade cooking infuse each bite as you savor the rich heritage and delicious taste of this timeless recipe. Get ready to experience the love and warmth that only a homemade dish passed down through generations can provide.

Quick Benefits

• Buttermilk adds moisture and tang, creating a tender, fluffy crumb with a pleasant acidity.
• Combining cornmeal and flour balances texture, providing structure and softness while retaining classic corn flavor.
• Baking soda reacts with buttermilk to help the cornbread rise, resulting in a light and airy texture.
• Keeps well for up to two days at room temperature or five days in the fridge, making it a convenient and delicious make-ahead option.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe Recipe

• Nostalgic Flavors: This recipe brings the nostalgic taste of golden crisp edges and tender crumb, reminiscent of old-fashioned, comforting cornbread that has been passed down through generations.
• Versatile Pairing: Perfect to serve alongside soups, stews, chili, or even as a breakfast treat with a drizzle of honey, offering a versatile option for any meal.
• Easy Storage: Cut into squares, store leftovers in an airtight container; it keeps well at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for five days, making it a convenient make-ahead dish.
• Make-ahead Option: Freeze individual pieces and thaw before enjoying, allowing for a quick and easy meal or snack whenever desired.
• Simple Substitution: In case of buttermilk shortage, easily substitute with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar, providing a practical solution without compromising the taste.
• Flavor Variations: Customize the recipe by adjusting the sugar for a less sweet version, or adding a pinch of smoked paprika or grated cheese for added flavor, allowing for personalization to suit different preferences.
• Cultural Roots: Connect with the rich history of Southern American cuisine and Native American traditions, as cornbread is a staple with deep roots and a story behind every family’s version.
• Tender Texture: The combination of cornmeal and flour creates a perfect balance of texture, providing structure and softness while enhancing the classic corn flavor, resulting in a tender, fluffy crumb.
• Moisture and Tang: Buttermilk adds moisture, tang, and a slight acidity, contributing to the overall tenderness and flavor of the cornbread, making it a delightful and flavorful choice.
• Light and Airy: The reaction between buttermilk acidity and baking soda helps the cornbread rise, ensuring a light and airy texture that is satisfying with every bite.

Ingredients for Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

Batter

• 125 grams all-purpose flour
• 240 millilitres cultured buttermilk
• 3 grams baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 115 grams unsalted butter
• 135 grams granulated sugar
• 1.5 grams fine salt
• 150 grams yellow cornmeal

Pro Tips for Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps the butter incorporate evenly and the eggs mix smoothly into the batter, resulting in a more tender cornbread.

Pro Tip 2: To enhance the flavor, you can add a handful of fresh corn kernels, diced jalapeños, or even crumbled bacon to the batter before baking. These additions bring extra texture and a savory kick to your cornbread.

Pro Tip 3: To achieve that perfect golden crust, preheat your baking dish with the melted butter in the oven before pouring in the batter. This technique helps create a crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

How to Make Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 175°C and lightly grease a 20-centimeter square baking pan.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix with Sugar

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Remove from heat and quickly stir in granulated sugar until blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Whisk eggs into the butter-sugar mixture until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Buttermilk and Baking Soda

Whisk together buttermilk and baking soda in a bowl until dissolved. Pour into skillet and stir to combine.

Step 5: Blend Dry Ingredients

Combine cornmeal, flour, and salt until batter is just mixed, leaving a few small lumps.

Step 6: Fill Pan and Bake

Evenly spread the batter in the prepared pan. Bake on the center rack for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Storage Tips

Once the Grandmother’s Buttermilk Cornbread has cooled, it is best to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you plan to consume the cornbread within two days, you can store it at room temperature. However, if you intend to keep it for longer, particularly up to five days, storing it in the refrigerator is recommended.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cornbread by wrapping individual pieces securely and thawing them before enjoying. To restore its softness after freezing, a quick reheat in the microwave can bring back its original texture. Whether you serve it warm with soups, stews, or chili, or enjoy it with a drizzle of honey for breakfast, this classic cornbread will continue to bring comfort and good memories to your table.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by combining 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe. This alternative will provide a similar tanginess to your cornbread.

For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. Keep in mind that these substitutions may affect the moisture content and sweetness level of the cornbread, so adjust accordingly to your taste preferences.

If you want to add a twist to the traditional recipe, consider incorporating a pinch of smoked paprika or grated cheese for extra flavor. These additions can elevate the taste profile of the cornbread while still maintaining its classic texture and structure.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning leftover cornbread into a unique and tasty dessert by layering it with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey for a Southern twist on a classic trifle. The combination of the sweetened cream, juicy berries, and buttery cornbread creates a delightful treat that is sure to impress your guests.

Another fun way to serve this buttermilk cornbread is to slice it into small cubes, lightly toast them in the oven, and use them as croutons on a hearty salad. The crunchy texture and subtle corn flavor of the cornbread croutons will add a delicious twist to your favorite salad greens, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

FAQs for Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk in this recipe?

If you run out of buttermilk, you can use one cup of regular milk mixed with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes, and then use it as directed in the recipe.

Can I make the cornbread less sweet?

For a less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar to one third cup. Additionally, you can try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or grated cheese for added flavor.

What can I do if I don’t have cornmeal for this recipe?

If you don’t have cornmeal, you can try using a mixture of all-purpose flour and a small amount of cornstarch to mimic the texture of cornmeal. However, the corn flavor may not be as pronounced.

How should I store the cornbread and for how long will it stay fresh?

Once cooled, cut the cornbread into squares and store it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for five days. If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap individual pieces and thaw before enjoying. A quick zap in the microwave restores its softness.

Conclusion

Grandmother’s Buttermilk Cornbread is more than just a recipe—it’s a connection to the past, a taste of tradition, and a vessel for creating new memories around the table. As you savor each bite of this golden, buttery delight, may you be transported back to your own cherished moments spent with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over a simple, comforting meal.

Whether you enjoy this cornbread warm with a pat of butter, paired with a hearty stew, or as a sweet treat drizzled with honey, may it always bring you a sense of warmth and belonging. Embrace the versatility of this classic recipe, experiment with different variations, and make it your own while honoring the legacy of Grandmother’s Buttermilk Cornbread. Let the aroma fill your kitchen and your heart with the richness of tradition, love, and the simple joys of homemade goodness.

Southern Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

“Grandma’s Buttermilk Cornbread: A tender, golden crusted recipe passed down through generations, perfect for comforting meals and creating cherished memories.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time35 Minutes

Total Time50 Minutes

CuisineAmerican Southern

Skill LevelEasy

Servings9 Servings (1 pan (20 cm square))

Ingredients

Batter

• 125 grams all-purpose flour
• 240 millilitres cultured buttermilk
• 3 grams baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 115 grams unsalted butter
• 135 grams granulated sugar
• 1.5 grams fine salt
• 150 grams yellow cornmeal

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 175°C and lightly grease a 20-centimeter square baking pan.
2. Melt Butter and Mix with Sugar: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Remove from heat and quickly stir in granulated sugar until blended.
3. Incorporate Eggs: Whisk eggs into the butter-sugar mixture until smooth.
4. Combine Buttermilk and Baking Soda: Whisk together buttermilk and baking soda in a bowl until dissolved. Pour into skillet and stir to combine.
5. Blend Dry Ingredients: Combine cornmeal, flour, and salt until batter is just mixed, leaving a few small lumps.
6. Fill Pan and Bake: Evenly spread the batter in the prepared pan. Bake on the center rack for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.