Can I make this cornbread without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice to 2 cups of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then use as directed in the recipe.

Is separating the eggs really necessary?

While you can skip separating the eggs and just add them whole, the whipped egg whites create a lighter, fluffier texture that makes this cornbread special. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but the result won't be quite as airy.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely! Traditional Southern cornbread recipes vary greatly in their sweetness. You can reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons or even eliminate it completely if you prefer a more savory cornbread.

Southern Cornbread Recipe

Golden, crumbly, and ridiculously delicious, this Southern Cornbread is the perfect blend of savory and sweet. With its crispy edges and moist center, this cornbread comes together in under an hour and pairs beautifully with everything from chili to barbecue. The buttermilk adds a lovely tang, while the whipped egg whites create an airy texture that makes this cornbread stand out from the rest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Texture: The combination of whipped egg whites and buttermilk creates a cornbread that’s light and fluffy in the middle with those irresistibly crispy edges everyone fights over.
Balanced Flavor: Not too sweet, not too savory – this cornbread hits the sweet spot that pleases both traditionalists and those who prefer a hint of sweetness.
Versatile: Works as a side dish for nearly any meal, from hearty stews to summer barbecues, or simply enjoyed warm with a pat of butter and drizzle of honey.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who claim not to like cornbread will be reaching for seconds of this Southern classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Yellow Cornmeal: The foundation of any good cornbread, providing that distinctive corn flavor and slightly gritty texture that makes cornbread so special.
All-Purpose Flour: Balances the cornmeal and creates a more tender crumb than using cornmeal alone.
Granulated Sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to enhance the natural corn flavor without making it taste like cake.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: The dynamic duo that ensures your cornbread rises beautifully and has the perfect texture.
Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors and creates the perfect balance.
Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture while also activating the baking soda for a better rise.
Eggs (separated): The yolks add richness while the whipped whites incorporate air for a fluffier texture.
Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and helps prevent the cornbread from drying out.
Unsalted Butter (melted): Brings richness and that unmistakable buttery flavor that makes cornbread irresistible.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious ways to customize your cornbread:

Jalapeño Cheddar: Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 2 finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) before baking.
Bacon and Green Onion: Stir in 6-8 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon and 1/4 cup of sliced green onions.
Corn and Herbs: Add 1 cup of fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels and 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives.
Honey Butter: Serve with a compound butter made by mixing 1/2 cup softened butter with 2 tablespoons of honey.

How to Make Southern Cornbread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Generously grease a 9×13 baking dish with vegetable shortening, oil, or butter. For an extra crispy crust, place the empty pan in the oven while it preheats.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg yolks until well combined. The rich yellow color means you’re doing it right!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the buttermilk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk until fully incorporated, but don’t overmix – a few small lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean medium bowl, beat the egg whites using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When you lift the beaters, the peaks should stand tall without flopping over.

Step 6: Fold in Egg Whites and Fats

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter. Then stir in the melted butter and oil, mixing just until combined. The batter should look light and airy.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The center should feel firm to the touch.

Step 8: Finish with Butter

As soon as the cornbread comes out of the oven, brush the top with a little extra melted butter for a beautiful sheen and extra flavor. Cut into squares and serve while still warm.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cast Iron Method: For an even crispier crust, preheat a cast iron skillet in the oven, then add a tablespoon of oil before pouring in the batter.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and buttermilk to come to room temperature before mixing for better incorporation.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are incorporated to keep your cornbread tender.
Perfect Egg Whites: Make sure your bowl is completely clean and dry before whipping egg whites – any fat residue will prevent them from forming stiff peaks.
Check Early: Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes, as ovens vary and overcooked cornbread can become dry.

How to Serve

Southern cornbread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many dishes:

Main Dish Pairings

Serve alongside chili, beef stew, collard greens, black-eyed peas, barbecue ribs, or fried chicken for a true Southern meal.

Simple Serving Ideas

Enjoy warm with a generous pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a spoonful of sorghum syrup for a sweet treat.

Breakfast Option

Leftover cornbread makes a fantastic breakfast when split, toasted, and topped with eggs and bacon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This is perfect for quick sides when you need them.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat cornbread in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds, though the texture won’t be as crisp.

FAQs

Can I make this cornbread without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice to 2 cups of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then use as directed in the recipe.
Is separating the eggs really necessary?

While you can skip separating the eggs and just add them whole, the whipped egg whites create a lighter, fluffier texture that makes this cornbread special. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the result won’t be quite as airy.
Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely! Traditional Southern cornbread recipes vary greatly in their sweetness. You can reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons or even eliminate it completely if you prefer a more savory cornbread.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Cornbread recipe is more than just a side dish – it’s a tradition worth sharing. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, crispy edges and tender center, it’ll become your go-to whenever you want to add a touch of Southern comfort to your meal. Whether paired with your favorite chili, served alongside smoky barbecue, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter, this cornbread never disappoints. Give it a try and discover why this humble bread has been gracing Southern tables for generations!