Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – With just a few pantry staples, this recipe comes together in minutes.
- Crispy & Golden – Frying gives the cornbread a satisfying crunch.
- Versatile – Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even a base for toppings like honey or butter.
- Perfect for Any Meal – Pairs well with savory dishes like chili or BBQ.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup cornmeal
- 1/3 cup self-rising flour
- 1/3 cup low-fat buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying (about 3 tbsp. coconut oil or your choice)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Mix the Batter – In a bowl, combine the cornmeal, self-rising flour, buttermilk, and egg. Stir until smooth.
- Heat the Oil – In a skillet, heat about 3 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Form the Cornbread Patties – Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, shaping them into small rounds.
- Fry Until Golden – Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain & Serve – Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with butter or honey.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Sweet Version – Add 1 tablespoon of sugar for a slightly sweet flavor.
- Cheesy Cornbread – Stir in ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
- Spicy Twist – Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use all cornmeal and skip the flour?
Yes, but the flour helps give it a softer texture. Using all cornmeal will make it crunchier.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but for the best results, add 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Coconut oil, vegetable oil, or bacon grease all work well for frying cornbread.
How do I keep my fried cornbread from being greasy?
Make sure the oil is hot before adding the batter and drain on paper towels after frying.
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes! Spoon the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free self-rising flour or a mix of cornmeal and baking powder.
Why is my cornbread too dry?
Not enough buttermilk or overcooking can make it dry. Make sure to follow the ingredient measurements and cook just until golden brown.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
Can I add fresh corn kernels?
Absolutely! Add ¼ cup of fresh or canned corn kernels for extra texture and flavor.
What do I serve with fried cornbread?
It’s perfect with chili, collard greens, BBQ, or fried chicken. You can also serve it with honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch.
Conclusion
Fried Cornbread is a simple yet delicious Southern staple that adds the perfect crispy bite to any meal. Whether you enjoy it savory or sweet, this golden-fried treat is sure to be a hit at the table. Try it with your favorite comfort foods and savor the crunch!
Print
Fried Cornbread
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Fried Cornbread is a crispy, golden Southern classic that’s quick and easy to make. With a crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, this simple cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, BBQ, fried chicken, or collard greens. Enjoy it as a savory side dish or a sweet treat with butter and honey!
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup cornmeal
- ⅓ cup self-rising flour
- ⅓ cup low-fat buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons oil for frying (coconut oil, vegetable oil, or bacon grease)
Instructions
- Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine cornmeal, self-rising flour, buttermilk, and egg. Stir until smooth.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat about 3 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Form the Cornbread Patties: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, shaping them into small rounds.
- Fry Until Golden: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown.
- Drain & Serve: Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and serve warm with butter or honey.
Notes
- Sweet Version: Add 1 tablespoon of sugar for a slightly sweet flavor.
- Cheesy Cornbread: Stir in ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
- Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Baking Option: Spoon batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
