18 Delicious Cornbread Recipes for Every Occasion

Posted on April 1, 2025

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When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a warm, crumbly slice of cornbread straight from the oven. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table for a family meal or hosting a casual get-together with friends, a delicious cornbread recipe is sure to please. But why settle for just one way to make this classic American dish when you can have 18? From sweet and savory to spicy and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouthwatering cornbread recipes that are perfect for every occasion.

Classic Southern Cornbread

Classic Southern Cornbread
There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of classic southern cornbread, fresh from the oven and slathered with butter. This recipe is a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with your favorite comfort foods.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Honey Butter Cornbread

Honey Butter Cornbread
Sweeten up your cornbread game with this simple recipe that combines the warmth of honey and the richness of butter.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Stir in honey until well incorporated.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
Add some heat to your meal with this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread recipe, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews. The combination of crispy cornbread and spicy jalapeños will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2-3 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Buttermilk Cornbread

Buttermilk Cornbread
Warm up with a classic Southern treat – our Buttermilk Cornbread recipe is moist, crumbly, and perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite comfort foods. This simple cornbread recipe yields a golden-brown, buttery delight that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish; smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Skillet Cornbread with Crispy Edges

Skillet Cornbread with Crispy Edges
This classic cornbread recipe gets a crispy twist when cooked in a cast-iron skillet. The result is a golden-brown, buttery treat with crunchy edges and a soft center.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set.
7. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sweet Maple Cornbread

Sweet Maple Cornbread
This sweet and savory cornbread recipe combines the warmth of maple syrup with the comfort of classic cornbread, perfect for a cozy brunch or as a side dish for your favorite meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, maple syrup, egg, and buttermilk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in melted butter.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread Muffins
These moist and flavorful cornbread muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack on-the-go.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Bacon and Scallion Cornbread

Bacon and Scallion Cornbread
Elevate your cornbread game with this savory and sweet recipe featuring crispy bacon and fresh scallions. Perfect for a comforting side dish or a hearty snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add buttermilk and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in crumbled bacon and chopped scallions.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Gluten-Free Cornbread

Gluten-Free Cornbread
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make gluten-free cornbread recipe? This classic Southern staple is now accessible to everyone with this simple recipe that uses almond flour as a substitute for traditional wheat-based flours.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons melted butter or non-dairy alternative
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter or non-dairy alternative.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cornbread Stuffing with Herbs

Cornbread Stuffing with Herbs
A savory twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the brightness of fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cornbread crumbs (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add the cornbread crumbs, parsley, thyme, and poultry seasoning. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.

Cornbread Pancakes

Cornbread Pancakes
Looking for a breakfast or brunch recipe that combines the best of both worlds? Look no further! These cornbread pancakes are a unique twist on traditional pancakes, incorporating the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread into a fluffy and delicious pancake.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (6-8 minutes per batch)

Blueberry Cornbread

Blueberry Cornbread
This moist and flavorful blueberry cornbread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for your next meal. The sweetness of the blueberries pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a unique and delicious flavor combination.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Honey, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Mexican Street Cornbread

Mexican Street Cornbread
This recipe brings together the flavors of Mexico and the comfort of cornbread, perfect for a fiesta or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cheese, cilantro, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped jalapeño (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cornbread Salad

Cornbread Salad
This refreshing salad combines the warm, crumbly texture of cornbread with the sweetness of summer vegetables and a tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics or potlucks!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
3. Add crumbled cornbread to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.

Cornbread Casserole with Cheese

Cornbread Casserole with Cheese
This hearty casserole combines the warmth of cornbread with the creaminess of cheese, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and milk; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with grated cheese and smooth out.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cornbread Waffles

Cornbread Waffles
Transform classic cornbread into a breakfast or brunch favorite with these crispy and fluffy waffles.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and corn kernels.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron and spread evenly to fill the iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron with cooking spray as needed.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of waffles you make.

Pumpkin Spice Cornbread

Pumpkin Spice Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread recipe combines the comforting spices of pumpkin pie with the classic warmth of traditional cornbread, perfect for a cozy fall gathering or as a side dish for your favorite soups and stews.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, pumpkin puree, egg, milk, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cornbread Croutons

Cornbread Croutons
Transform leftover cornbread into crispy croutons that add texture and flavor to your favorite salads and soups. This simple recipe is a great way to reduce food waste and create a tasty topping.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups stale cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the cornbread cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until the croutons are evenly coated.
3. Spread the croutons on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of cornbread with these 18 delicious recipes for every occasion! From classic Southern-style to honey butter and jalapeño-cheddar twists, there’s something for everyone. Try skillet cornbread with crispy edges, sweet maple cornbread, or cornbread muffins. Or, get creative with bacon and scallion, gluten-free, or blueberry variations. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, main course, or even breakfast option, this collection has got you covered.

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