The Best Cornbread Recipe with Butter

Cornbread, a staple of Southern comfort food, is a simple yet incredibly versatile dish. This Cornbread Recipe With Butter elevates the classic to new heights, delivering a moist, crumbly texture with a rich, buttery flavor that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you enjoy it as a side to chili, barbecue, or simply slathered with more butter and honey, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Mastering the Art of Cornbread with Butter

Making perfect cornbread doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. The key lies in understanding the balance of wet and dry ingredients, the importance of proper baking temperature, and the magic touch of butter. My grandmother, a true Southern baking legend, always emphasized the importance of using quality ingredients, especially fresh cornmeal. She used to say, “The cornmeal is the heart of the bread, so choose it wisely.” And she was absolutely right.

This cornbread recipe with butter showcases the beauty of simplicity. We’ll use everyday pantry staples like cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, and milk. But the star of the show is, of course, the butter. We’ll use it both in the batter and as a finishing touch, creating a truly unforgettable cornbread experience.

Cornbread Batter Ingredients

The Perfect Cornbread Recipe with Butter: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter. This ensures that your cornbread won’t stick and will have those beautiful golden-brown edges.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure even rising and distribution of flavor.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. The melted butter adds richness and helps create that tender crumb.

4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough cornbread. A few lumps are perfectly fine.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. The Butter Finish: While the cornbread is still warm, brush the top with melted butter. This adds another layer of flavor and creates a beautiful sheen.

Pouring Cornbread Batter into Pan

Tips for the Best Cornbread Recipe with Butter

• Use Freshly Ground Cornmeal: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly ground cornmeal if you can find it. It really does make a difference!

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough, dense cornbread. Mix until just combined.

• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. For a sweeter cornbread, add up to 1/2 cup of sugar. You might enjoy a sweet cornbread recipe.

• Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Chopped jalapenos, cheddar cheese, or even crumbled bacon can add a delicious twist. For a Southern twist, try our Southern cornbread recipe. If you prefer herbs, a Southern cornbread with herbs is a delicious option.

• Serve Warm: Cornbread is best served warm, straight from the oven.

Baked Cornbread with Melted Butter

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Cornbread Recipe with Butter!

This cornbread recipe with butter is a simple pleasure that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. With its moist, crumbly texture and rich, buttery flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade cornbread. For those who prefer their cornbread with a touch of sweetness, Southern cornbread with honey is a delightful choice. Similarly, for those who prefer a classic apple pie, you might find our Apple pie recipe with crust to be an equally satisfying baking experience.

Sliced Cornbread Serving

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter? While you can use margarine, butter provides a richer flavor and contributes to the tender crumb.

2. How do I store leftover cornbread? Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze cornbread? Yes, you can freeze cornbread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep for up to 3 months.

4. Why is my cornbread crumbly? Crumbly cornbread is usually a sign of using too much cornmeal or not enough binder (like eggs).

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour.

6. Why did my cornbread sink in the middle? This could be due to opening the oven door too early during baking or not baking it long enough.

7. Can I add other ingredients to the batter? Yes, you can add ingredients like cheese, jalapenos, or herbs to customize your cornbread.