Easy Homemade Cornbread Recipe – Moist, Golden & Ready in 20 Minutes
Looking for the best easy homemade cornbread recipe? This classic, quick-bake cornbread is the perfect side dish for chili, soups, BBQ, or Southern-style meals. With a moist, fluffy texture and golden crust, it’s made from simple pantry ingredients like cornmeal, flour, and a hint of sweetness.
Our 20-minute cornbread recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. It yields 9 to 12 servings and pairs beautifully with savory dishes or stands alone as a delicious snack.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, follow our straightforward steps to make moist, flavorful cornbread your whole family will love.
⦁ 4 teaspoons baking powder
⦁ 2 tablespoons sugar
⦁ 1 cup flour
⦁ 1 cup water
⦁ 1 cup cornmeal
⦁ 1 egg
⦁ ½ teaspoons salt
⦁ ¼ cup instant dry milk
⦁ ¼ cup oil
1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, cornmeal, instant milk, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the egg, then add the water and oil. Continue beating until well combined.
4. Combine and Mix: Pour the wet ingredients into the cornmeal mixture. Stir by hand until the batter is well blended and smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350–375°F and bake for 20-25 minutes.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Cornmeal – Use stone-ground yellow cornmeal for authentic texture and rich corn flavor
✔ All-Purpose Flour – Balances the crumb for a tender yet hearty bite
✔ Baking Powder & Baking Soda – For a light rise and fluffy interior
✔ Buttermilk – A must for moisture, tang, and traditional Amish richness
✔ Eggs – Provide structure and help bind the ingredients
✔ Sugar or Honey – Amish recipes use just a touch for subtle sweetness
✔ Salt – Enhances the natural corn flavor
✔ Butter – Melted into the batter and brushed on top for golden richness
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Preheat Well – Use a hot oven (180–190°C / 350–375°F) to ensure even baking
✔ Mix Dry First – Combine cornmeal, flour, baking agents, and salt separately to avoid clumping
✔ Blend Wet Gently – Mix eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter before combining with dry ingredients
✔ Don’t Overmix – Fold just until incorporated to keep the crumb tender
✔ Grease the Pan – Traditionally baked in cast iron for crispy edges and even browning
🔥 Cooking Techniques
✔ Cast Iron is Key – Preheat the skillet in the oven for a crisp, golden crust
✔ Watch Bake Time – 20–25 minutes is ideal; edges should be golden and a toothpick should come out clean
✔ Brush with Butter – Right after baking for a glossy, flavorful finish
✔ Let It Rest – Cool slightly before slicing to allow structure to set
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Sweet vs. Savory – Adjust sugar or honey depending on how you’re serving it
✔ Add-Ins (Optional) – Corn kernels, cheddar, or jalapeños for variety
✔ Pair With – Amish stews, baked beans, or fresh apple butter
📦 Storage
✔ Room Temp – Keep covered for up to 2 days
✔ Refrigerate – For up to 5 days in an airtight container
✔ Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
✔ Reheat – Warm in oven or skillet for best texture
🍽 Serving
✔ Classic Style – Cut into hearty squares and serve warm with butter
✔ With Meals – Perfect alongside soups, chili, or Amish beef stew
✔ Sweet Twist – Top with honey, jam, or a pat of butter for breakfast or snack
✔ Rustic Charm – Serve straight from the cast iron pan for farmhouse flair