Southern Cornbread in Cast Iron

Name: Southern Buttermilk Cornbread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup yellow cornmeal ((fresh, and preferably stone-ground)); 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 1/4 cups buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1/3 cup corn oil or vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

There’s almost nothing more delicious or classic than Southern Buttermilk Cornbread in Cast Iron. What sets this cornbread recipe apart is a combination of stone-ground cornmeal and buttermilk. It’s moist and buttery with a crispy golden edge, perfect for serving with fried chicken, chili, or a big bowl of soup.

If you love cornbread, try my Sausage Cheese Cornbread Quiche, Creamed Corn Cornbread Muffins, and Sour Cream Cornbread.

There's almost nothing more delicious or classic than Southern Cornbread in Cast Iron. What sets this cornbread recipe apart is a combination of stone-ground cornmeal and buttermilk. It's moist and buttery with a crispy golden edge, perfect for serving with fried chicken, chili, or a big bowl of soup.

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The Southern Cornbread I Grew Up On

As a Southern cook, I’ve been making cornbread for years, and there’s nothing quite like baking it in a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. This recipe stays true to its roots, using stone-ground cornmeal and buttermilk, just like my Grandmother and Mother did before me. These simple ingredients are staples in my kitchen and create a rich, flavorful cornbread steeped in tradition that I’m always proud to serve. Y’all, it’s simply delicious.

Why This Cornbread Deserves a Spot at Your Table

Quick and Easy for Busy Days – With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have cornbread baking in the oven.

Not Too Sweet—Just the Way I Like It – Over the years, I’ve learned that not all cornbread is created equal. This recipe has no added sweetness, making it the perfect base for a drizzle of honey or a generous pat of butter.

Classic Southern Cornbread Ingredients

Ingredients for classic Southern buttermilk cornbread in glass bowls and containers.

Stone-ground yellow cornmeal works best for this recipe! It’s coarser and results in a better-baked texture.
For the basics, you’ll use all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
To combine the batter, buttermilk, an egg, vegetable oil (or corn oil), and unsalted butter are used.

Recipe Variations And Additions

Add Jalapenos: For a kick, add diced and deseeded jalapenos. You can make green chili and cheddar cornbread for a mild, spicy flavor.
Skillet Swap: If you don’t have a cast iron, use a ceramic square or round baking dish. The key is to use a heavy bottom dish to distribute heat evenly when baked.
Add Sweetness: For a hint of sweetness, add up to 2 tablespoons of honey, sugar, or maple syrup to the batter.

How To Make Southern Cornbread From Scratch

Cast iron skillet with baked cornbread cut into triangles for serving.

Combine the dry ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together baking soda and buttermilk.
Add butter and one teaspoon of oil to a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes at 375 degrees.
Beat the egg and oil together. Pour the mixture into the cornmeal mixture. Add the buttermilk mixture and blend until the batter comes together. Don’t overmix.
Remove the skillet from the oven and swirl the butter to cover the pan. Pour the batter into the skillet and bake in the oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Slice into wedges and serve.

Donya’s Tips For Making Old Fashioned Cornbread

Use Stone-Ground Cornmeal: It gives cornbread a rich, authentic texture and deep flavor.
Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet: Heating the skillet first is what makes a golden, crispy crust.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the ingredients until they come together to keep the texture light.
Add Buttermilk: Buttermilk makes the cornbread tender and moist.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the cornbread to cool slightly to let the flavors settle.

Slice of Southern cornbread with melted butter on a white plate.

Can I Make This Cornbread Recipe Gluten-Free?

You sure can! Swap regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and you’re ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftovers?

Cornbread will last up to 5 days in the fridge. Once it is completely cooled, I like to wrap it in plastic wrap. Otherwise, you can remove it from the cast iron and store it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Can you freeze Southern skillet cornbread?

Oh yes! Once cooled, remove the cornbread from the cast iron and transfer it to a plastic bag or freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. I like to wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then store them so I can reheat one slice at a time.

How do you reheat cornbread?

To heat it back up, place your leftovers in an oven preheated to 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed. You can also pop this Southern cornbread recipe with buttermilk in the microwave wrapped on a damp paper towel. Heat for about 15-20 seconds and check until just warm.

Can I use a self-rising cornmeal mix?

Self-rising cornmeal has these mixed in, so it can be swapped for regular cornmeal, but you’ll need to leave out the baking soda and baking powder.

Slice of old-fashioned Southern cornbread with butter on a white plate served with a silver spoon.

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What To Serve With Southern Cornbread

My quick answer is “just about everything,” but I do have some favorites:

Soups and Stews: a big slice of buttered cornbread is a must with Crock Pot Ham and White Bean Soup, my Southern Soul Chili or Chicken Stew.
Bowl of Beans: For a classic Southern combination, a big bowl of Pinto Beans or Black-Eyed Peas with hot cornbread is downright heavenly. Oh, and don’t forget the hot sauce!
Traditional Sunday Supper: there’s nothing like a beautiful Brown Sugar Pork Roast, or pulled pork with Collard Greens and Mom’s Potato Salad for supper.

More Classic Recipes You’ll Love

If you tried this Southern Cast Iron Cornbread Recipe or any other recipe, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks!