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+ servings

Homemade Sweet Buttery Cornbread

This tender, golden cornbread carries a rich buttery taste balanced by a touch of sweetness. Moist and satisfying, it’s a reliable choice for both everyday meals and special gatherings.
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Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: perfect homemade cornbread
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 squares

Ingredients

Cornbread Batter

  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • ¾ cup ground yellow cornmeal
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted and allowed to cool
  • 2 tablespoons pure honey
  • 1 cup well-shaken buttermilk
  • cups plain all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ cup granulated sugar

Honey Butter Glaze

  • 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon natural honey

Instructions

  • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C), and generously grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish using nonstick spray.
  • In a sizable mixing bowl, blend together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly, then set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter with the sugar, honey, and egg until smooth. Incorporate the buttermilk and mix until uniform.
  • Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring just until a cohesive batter forms—avoid overmixing.
  • Transfer the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface evenly with a spatula.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
  • While the cornbread is baking, place the honey and butter for the glaze in a small microwave-safe bowl. Warm briefly in the microwave until the butter has fully melted.
  • Stir the glaze until smooth, then gently brush it over the surface of the cornbread once it comes out of the oven and is still warm.
  • Cut into squares and serve while warm.
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Notes

Homemade Buttermilk Substitute:
To create a quick buttermilk alternative, pour 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into a 1-cup liquid measuring cup. Fill with milk to the 1-cup mark. Stir and let stand for a few minutes before using.
Skillet Option:
A 9- or 10-inch well-greased cast iron skillet may be used in place of a baking dish. Begin checking for doneness around 15 minutes, especially if using a wider pan.
Scaling the Recipe:
To double, simply multiply each ingredient by two and bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Expect a slightly longer bake time. If browning too quickly on top, cover loosely with foil.
Pan Variations:
A metal 9×9-inch pan bakes in roughly 18 minutes. If using glass or a smaller 8×8-inch dish, anticipate additional baking time.