Salads & Sides

Sweet Southern Cornbread – A Buttery, Golden Delight 🌽🍯✨

Few things are as comforting as Sweet Southern Cornbread—moist, tender, and with just the right balance of sweetness.

By Amanda DavisMAR 10, 20253 MIN

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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a cast iron skillet or baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and oil until smooth.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, corn flour (masa harina), salt, and baking soda.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking dish.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing.
  9. Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam.

Few things are as comforting as Sweet Southern Cornbread—moist, tender, and with just the right balance of sweetness. This classic Southern recipe is rich with buttermilk, butter, and a touch of sugar, making it the perfect side for everything from fried chicken to chili. Whether you love it slathered in honey butter or paired with savory dishes, this cornbread will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

  • Moist & Buttery: Thanks to buttermilk, butter, and a touch of oil.
  • Slightly Sweet & Tender: Perfect balance of flavors without being too sugary.
  • Versatile Side Dish: Great with barbecue, chili, or just on its own.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, big flavor!

What Does Sweet Southern Cornbread Taste Like?

This cornbread has a golden crust with a moist, soft center. It’s slightly sweet but not overly sugary, with a rich buttery flavor. The combination of corn flour (masa harina) and all-purpose flour gives it the perfect texture—light and tender, yet slightly hearty.

Ingredients 🛒

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs 🥚
  • 2 cups granulated sugar 🍚
  • 2 cups buttermilk 🥛
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 🧈 (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing)
  • 3 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or melted bacon grease)

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 🌾
  • 2 cups corn flour (masa harina) 🌽
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt 🧂
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cast iron skillet or baking dish (9×13-inch)
  • Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Sweet Southern Cornbread

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Grease a cast iron skillet or baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and oil until smooth.

  • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, corn flour (masa harina), salt, and baking soda.

  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

  • Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking dish.

  • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing.

  • Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam.

What to Serve with Sweet Southern Cornbread

  • Barbecue Ribs or Pulled Pork 🍖
  • Chili or Stew 🍲
  • Collard Greens & Smoked Ham 🥬
  • Fried Chicken 🍗
  • Honey Butter or Maple Syrup Drizzle 🍯

How to Store

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2 days.
  • Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Sweet Southern Cornbread is the perfect balance of buttery, moist, and slightly sweet—an absolute must-have for any Southern meal. Whether served alongside barbecue, chili, or enjoyed with honey butter, this homemade cornbread is sure to impress!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your creation on Pinterest — don’t forget to tag me!

More Southern Favorites to Try:

  • Buttermilk Biscuits 🥛
  • Classic Corn Pudding 🌽
  • Honey Butter Dinner Rolls 🍞

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Happy Baking! 🌽🍞✨

Tips for Success

  • Use buttermilk for the most tender, moist texture.
  • For extra richness, substitute melted bacon grease for the oil.
  • Make it extra golden by preheating the buttered skillet in the oven before adding the batter.
  • Want a little crunch? Add ½ cup corn kernels to the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cornbread gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.

Can I make it less sweet?

Of course! Reduce the sugar to 1 cup for a more traditional Southern-style cornbread.

What’s the best pan for cornbread?

A cast iron skillet gives the best crispy edges, but a baking dish works too!

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