Buttermilk Corn Bread is a beloved and classic Southern dish that has been satisfying taste buds for generations. This iconic cornbread recipe combines the rich and tangy flavor of buttermilk with the hearty texture of cornmeal, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful bread. Whether served as a side dish to complement a comforting meal or enjoyed on its own, Buttermilk Corn Bread brings warmth and nostalgia to the table with every bite.

Cornbread has a long history in American cuisine, with its origins traced back to Native American cultures. The Native Americans were the first to cultivate and use corn as a staple grain, leading to the development of various corn-based dishes, including cornbread. When European settlers arrived in the Americas, they embraced this versatile grain and incorporated it into their own culinary traditions.

Buttermilk Corn Bread emerged as a popular variation of cornbread in the Southern United States, where corn is abundant and buttermilk was readily available. Buttermilk, a byproduct of churning butter, has a tangy flavor that adds richness and moisture to baked goods. When combined with cornmeal, flour, and other ingredients, it transforms ordinary cornbread into a melt-in-your-mouth delight.

The process of making Buttermilk Corn Bread is relatively simple, involving the combination of dry ingredients, the addition of wet ingredients, and baking to perfection. The result is a bread with a slightly crumbly texture, a hint of sweetness, and a pleasant tanginess from the buttermilk. The versatility of Buttermilk Corn Bread allows it to be enjoyed as a side dish with soups, stews, or barbecued meats, or even as a standalone treat.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 MIN.

MAKES: 2-4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or a similarly sized oven-safe dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until well incorporated.
4. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overmix. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
5. Pour the batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the pan from the oven and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares or wedges.
8. Serve the Buttermilk Corn Bread warm, either on its own or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods.

NOTES:

• Buttermilk Corn Bread is a cherished staple of Southern cuisine, representing the heart and soul of traditional comfort food. Its combination of tangy buttermilk, hearty cornmeal, and a touch of sweetness creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as part of a comforting meal or as a standalone treat, Buttermilk Corn Bread brings a taste of Southern hospitality and warmth to any occasion. Savor the nostalgia and flavor of this classic cornbread recipe, and let it transport you to the heart of Southern culinary traditions.