In grandma’s kitchen, cornbread was more than a side dish — it was a staple. Served with stews, chili, greens, or just a smear of butter and a drizzle of honey, it was always baked in a hot cast-iron skillet and came out golden, moist, and full of flavor.
This recipe brings back that homemade magic. We’ll show you how to make traditional Southern-style cornbread, just like grandma did — with crispy edges, tender crumb, and simple ingredients from the pantry.
Why Grandma’s Cornbread Is So Loved
There’s something special about homemade cornbread — especially when it’s done the old-fashioned way:
- No added sugar (or just a touch — grandma-style!)
- Moist on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside
- Baked in a cast-iron skillet for perfect texture
- Versatile enough for both sweet and savory dishes
- Always made with real cornmeal, butter, and love
Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Grandma’s Cornbread
This recipe serves 6–8 people and bakes in a 9-inch skillet or square pan.
- 1 cup cornmeal (medium or fine ground)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute below)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons sugar (for slightly sweet cornbread)
- Optional: ½ cup corn kernels, shredded cheese, or chopped jalapeños
Buttermilk Substitute:
- 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
- Let sit 5–10 minutes before using
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven (and the Skillet)
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
If using a cast-iron skillet, place it in the oven while it preheats. A hot skillet = crispy edges!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar if using.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Add the buttermilk and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix — a few lumps are fine.
If adding extras (corn, cheese, herbs), fold them in now.
Grandma’s Tip: A slightly thick batter makes a heartier cornbread.
5. Pour into the Hot Pan
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and grease it with a small amount of butter or oil.
Pour the batter into the skillet — it should sizzle slightly. Spread evenly.
6. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Cornbread (Grandma-Style)
Cornbread is incredibly versatile. Serve it:
- With chili or bean stew
- Alongside fried chicken or BBQ ribs
- Crumbled into collard greens or soups
- Toasted with butter and jam
- As a savory stuffing for poultry
- With honey or molasses drizzled on top
Variations and Add-Ins
Want to customize your cornbread? Try these ideas:
- Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Add ½ cup shredded cheese + 1 chopped jalapeño
- Sweet Cornbread: Increase sugar to ¼ cup
- Bacon Cornbread: Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon
- Herbed Cornbread: Add chopped chives, thyme, or rosemary
- Corn Pudding Cornbread: Mix in creamed corn for extra moisture
How to Store and Reheat
Store:
- Wrap leftovers in foil or airtight container
- Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freeze:
- Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months
- Thaw at room temperature or in the oven
Reheat:
- Oven: Wrap in foil and warm at 160°C (325°F) for 10–15 minutes
- Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts
Grandma’s Secrets for the Best Cornbread
- Preheat your skillet — this gives you that signature crispy crust
- Use real buttermilk for tang and tenderness
- Don’t overmix — treat the batter gently
- Serve warm, straight from the skillet
- Make extra — it disappears fast!
Final Thoughts: Cornbread with a Legacy
Grandma’s cornbread wasn’t just a side dish — it was part of the story. A warm slice passed around the table, a complement to hearty meals, or a snack all on its own, it brought comfort and connection to every occasion.
Now, with this recipe, you can bake that same golden comfort in your own kitchen — and carry on a timeless tradition.