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Nothing says Southern comfort quite like a pan of Moist Southern Cornbread fresh from the oven. With its buttery flavor, tender crumb, and perfectly golden top, this homemade cornbread is the perfect side dish for everything from chili and soups to barbecue and holiday dinners.

Made with simple pantry staples and tangy buttermilk, this easy cornbread recipe comes together in minutes and tastes infinitely better than any boxed mix.

Servings, Prep Time & Cook Time

Servings: 8

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: About 45 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Moist Southern Cornbread Recipe

  • Moist, tender texture
  • Rich buttery flavor
  • Easy one-bowl recipe
  • Ready in under an hour
  • Perfect with soups, chili, and barbecue
  • Classic Southern comfort food

Ingredients for Moist Southern Cornbread

The Dry Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal

¾ cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon sugar

1½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

The combination of cornmeal and flour creates the perfect balance between a tender crumb and classic Southern cornbread texture.

The Wet Ingredients

6 tablespoons butter, melted

2 large eggs

1½ cups buttermilk

Buttermilk keeps the cornbread incredibly moist while melted butter adds rich, homemade flavor.

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Moist Southern Cornbread Recipe
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Moist Southern Cornbread Recipe

Nothing says Southern comfort quite like a pan of Moist Southern Cornbread fresh from the oven. With its buttery flavor, tender crumb, and perfectly golden top, this homemade cornbread is the perfect side dish for everything from chili and soups to barbecue and holiday dinners.
Made with simple pantry staples and tangy buttermilk, this easy cornbread recipe comes together in minutes and tastes infinitely better than any boxed mix.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cool 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 6 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1½ cups buttermilk

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  • Lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
  • Stir until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Make Moist Southern Cornbread

Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet.

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Stir just until everything is combined. Don’t worry if there are a few small lumps—they’ll bake out and help keep the cornbread tender.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cornbread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

What to Serve with Moist Southern Cornbread

This classic Southern cornbread pairs perfectly with:

It’s also delicious served alongside:

  • Barbecue ribs
  • Pulled pork
  • Fried chicken
  • Collard greens

Finish your Southern meal with Chocolate Chip Pound Cake Recipe or Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie Recipe for dessert.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or heat in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Add a little butter before serving for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake this in a cast iron skillet?

Absolutely! A cast iron skillet creates crisp, golden edges and gives the cornbread an authentic Southern texture.

Can I make this sweeter?

Yes! Add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar if you prefer a sweeter cornbread.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Buttermilk is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. If needed, make a substitute by adding 1½ tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1½ cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I add cheese or jalapeños?

Definitely! Shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, or even cooked bacon make delicious additions to this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Southern Cornbread Recipe is everything homemade cornbread should be—buttery, tender, and full of classic Southern flavor. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty bowl of soup, your favorite barbecue, or a holiday feast, this easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

If you make this recipe, tag us so we can see. We love seeing how you style your food and bring a little Southern hospitality into your home.

Enjoy!

McKaylee & Michele
MckMich Collective