Buttery Southern Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Grandma’s Golden Southern Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Golden, buttery, and irresistibly moist, this classic southern sweet cornbread recipe delivers comfort straight from the heart of southern kitchens.

Generations have cherished this beloved side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and traditional cornbread texture.

Each forkful brings memories of warm gatherings and soulful meals shared around the table.

The blend of simple ingredients creates a delightful bread that pairs wonderfully with chili, barbecue, or stands alone as a delectable treat.

Soft crumbs melt in your mouth, while a subtle sweetness lingers with each bite.

southern cooks have long understood the magic of turning basic ingredients into something extraordinary.

Dive into this timeless recipe and savor a slice of southern culinary tradition that promises to become a staple in your own kitchen.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 247 kcal

Servings: 9

Ingredients for Classic Southern Sweet Cornbread

For Wet Ingredients:
  • Creamed Corn: Adds moisture and sweet corn flavor, choose a high-quality brand with whole kernel bits for texture.
  • Sour Cream: Provides richness and tenderness, select full-fat version for best results.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures a soft crumb and prevents dryness, opt for neutral-flavored oil.
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure, use room temperature eggs for smooth mixing.
For Dry Ingredients:
  • Jiffy Corn Mix: Classic Southern base that simplifies cornbread preparation, contains pre-measured flour and cornmeal.
  • Sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps with golden browning, white granulated sugar works best.
For Pan Preparation:
  • Butter or Non-Stick Spray: Creates smooth release and prevents cornbread from sticking, evenly coat pan surface for best results.

Tools for Southern Sweet Cornbread

  • Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients smoothly and thoroughly.
  • 9×11 inch baking pan: Perfect size for even baking and creating classic cornbread squares.
  • Spatula: Helps mix ingredients and spread batter evenly in the pan.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient proportions.
  • Toothpick or skewer: Used to check doneness by testing the center of the cornbread.
  • Whisk or fork: Great for blending ingredients until well combined.

Southern Sweet Cornbread Instructions

  • Oven Warmup

Crank up the oven to a toasty 350°F, creating the perfect environment for a golden, heavenly cornbread adventure.

  • Flavor Fusion

Dive into a mixing bowl and swirl together creamy corn, cornbread mix, tangy sour cream, silky oil, sweet sugar, and farm-fresh eggs until they dance into a smooth, dreamy blend.

  • Pan Preparation

Lovingly coat a baking pan with a whisper of butter or non-stick magic, ensuring your cornbread will glide out effortlessly.

  • Baking Brilliance

Pour the luscious mixture into the pan, smoothing it with a gentle touch. Let it bake for 35-40 minutes until a trusty toothpick comes out clean, signaling cornbread perfection.

  • Comfort Serve

Give your cornbread a moment to relax and settle in the pan, then slice into welcoming squares that promise comfort in every bite.

Tips for Sweet Cornbread Success

  • Swap out regular sugar for honey or maple syrup to add a unique sweetness that complements the corn's natural flavor.
  • Toss in diced jalapeños, green chiles, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a zesty Southern-style kick that transforms the classic recipe into a bold, spicy treat.
  • Fold in shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or crumbled feta cheese to create a rich, creamy texture that melts beautifully throughout the cornbread.
  • Experiment with add-ins like crispy bacon bits, roasted corn kernels, chopped scallions, or sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the cornbread with extra layers of flavor and texture.
  • Serve warm with a pat of butter, drizzle with honey, or pair alongside chili, barbecue, or hearty soups to create a complete and satisfying meal that celebrates Southern comfort food.

Serving Southern Sweet Cornbread

  • Pair with Hearty Soups: Serve this sweet cornbread alongside rich, warm chili, creamy potato soup, or robust beef stew for a comforting meal that'll warm your soul.
  • Create Breakfast Delight: Transform leftover cornbread into a morning treat by toasting slices and topping with honey butter, scrambled eggs, or a dollop of fruit preserves.
  • Elevate Barbecue Sides: Complement grilled meats like pulled pork, smoked ribs, or fried chicken with these sweet, crumbly cornbread squares for a classic Southern-style feast.
  • Make Cornbread Pudding: Crumble cooled cornbread into a baking dish, mix with eggs, milk, and butter, then bake for a decadent dessert that celebrates the bread's natural sweetness.

Storage Tips for Southern Sweet Cornbread

  • Seal and Store Fresh: Transfer leftover cornbread to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, keeping the bread's soft texture intact.
  • Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Wrap individual cornbread slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cornbread stays delicious for 2-3 months, ready to thaw and warm whenever a comfort food craving hits.
  • Revive Refrigerated Slices: Refresh cold cornbread by warming it briefly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast in an oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. A quick reheating brings back the original warm, soft texture.
  • Serve with Smart Pairings: Complement cornbread with butter, honey, or jam for extra flavor. Pair with soups, chili, or BBQ dishes to elevate your meal and create a satisfying dining experience.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Buttery Southern Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Buttery Southern Sweet Cornbread Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Grandma’s southern sweet cornbread delights families with rich, golden goodness steeped in nostalgic comfort. Warm slices paired with honey or butter offer pure Southern culinary pleasure for eager taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 small box jiffy corn mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • 14.75 oz (418 g) creamed corn
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup (50 g) sugar

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Ignite the oven to 350°F (177°C), establishing an ideal thermal environment for crafting golden-kissed cornbread.
  2. Mixing: Consolidate creamed corn, Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and eggs into a harmonious blend, whisking until achieving a silky, homogeneous texture.
  3. Pan Preparation: Lavish a 9×11 inch (23×28 centimeters) baking vessel with butter or non-stick spray, guaranteeing seamless cornbread extraction post-baking.
  4. Batter Deployment: Cascade the mixture into the prepared pan, delicately sculpting an even landscape using a spatula to ensure uniform heat distribution and consistent texture.
  5. Baking Process: Nestle the pan into the preheated oven, allowing 35-40 minutes of transformative heat, periodically assessing doneness through a toothpick’s clean emergence from the cornbread’s core.
  6. Cooling Ritual: Permit the freshly baked cornbread to settle and stabilize within its pan for 5-7 minutes, facilitating structural integrity and precise portioning.
  7. Serving Suggestion: Carve into generous squares, presenting warm with optional accompaniments of softened butter or honey to elevate the sensory experience.

Notes

  • Moisture Magic: Adding sour cream creates an incredibly soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth and prevents dry cornbread.
  • Temperature Precision: Let eggs and dairy ingredients reach room temperature to ensure smoother batter integration and more consistent baking results.
  • Pan Performance: Cast iron skillets deliver the crispiest golden exterior and enhance flavor development compared to standard baking pans.
  • Freshness Factor: Consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste, storing covered at room temperature or refrigerating to maintain moisture and prevent staleness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 247
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 263 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 47 mg
Michael Rivera

Michael Rivera

Co-Founder & Culinary Instructor

Expertise

  • Classic French Cuisine
  • Artisanal Bread Baking
  • Plant-Based Culinary Innovation
  • Recipe & Menu Development
  • Interactive Online Instruction

Education

The French Culinary Institute (now part of the International Culinary Center)

  • Program: Classic Culinary Arts
  • Focus: An intensive curriculum rooted in classical French techniques, artisanal bread production, and contemporary culinary methods.

Michael Rivera is a seasoned chef and culinary instructor based in San Francisco, CA. Trained in Classic Culinary Arts at The French Culinary Institute, he refined his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens, mastering classic French techniques and artisanal bread baking. 

Passionate about making gourmet methods accessible, Michael co-founded thatsmyhome.com to share his expertise through interactive online lessons and innovative, plant-based recipes. He loves blending traditional techniques with modern ideas, encouraging home cooks to enjoy the art of cooking in a relaxed, fun environment.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star