There's something undeniably comforting about Southern cuisine, and one dish that embodies that warmth and simplicity is the classic Southern cornbread. In this recipe, we're taking the traditional cornbread up a notch with a touch of sweetness. This Simply Sweet Southern Cornbread is the perfect side for hearty stews, barbecue, or even as a standalone treat. Let's dive into the heart of Southern kitchens with this easy and delicious recipe.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish with a bit of vegetable oil or use a non-stick cooking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or wedges.