How to Make Nana's Famous Southern Buttermilk Cornbread at Home
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Southern Buttermilk Cornbread is more than just a side dish; it's a slice of Southern tradition baked to perfection. Passed down through generations, Nana's recipe captures the warmth and hospitality of Southern kitchens.
Whether served alongside a hearty meal or enjoyed with a steaming bowl of chili, this cornbread shines with its moist texture and buttery flavor.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the secrets to making Nana's famous cornbread right in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that is simple yet packed with flavor.
The Ingredients You Will Need
Before diving into the baking process, gather all your ingredients for Nana's Southern Buttermilk Cornbread. You will need:
2 cup buttermilk cornmeal: Essential for that signature texture and flavor. Look for stone-ground cornmeal for a rustic taste
1 cup buttermilk: Key for ultra-moist cornbread.
1/2-1 cup of Blue-Plate Mayonnaise
1/4 cup melted butter: Adds a decadent buttery flavor that elevates the cornbread.
Before starting, ensure your pantry is stocked with these ingredients.
Preparing Your Baking Essentials
Before you bake, it’s important to set up your kitchen.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving the perfect golden crust.
Grease the skillet or baking dish: Nana swore by her cast-iron skillet for cornbread. If you have one, use it! It retains heat exceptionally well, resulting in airy cornbread with a crispy exterior. Lightly grease it with butter.
Mix your ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal and butter until the cornmeal forms little beads of dough.
Combining the Mixtures for Southern Buttermilk Cornbread
Now comes the exciting part—combining the ingredients!
Add the wet ingredients to dry: Add the Blue-Plate Mayo. and Buttermilk to your cornbread batter.
Mix with Mixer: Mix well with a mixer until ingredients are well incorporated, about 2 minutes.
Baking the Cornbread
Your batter is ready, so it’s time to bake!
Pour the batter into the heated skillet: You should hear a sizzle when the batter hits the hot surface, ensuring a crunchy crust.
Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven @ 425 degrees and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cornbread is ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool slightly: Once out of the oven, allow the cornbread to cool in the skillet for about 5-10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This brief cooling allows it to set without losing its shape.
Serving Suggestions
Nana always served her cornbread warm, straight from the oven. You can enjoy Southern Buttermilk Cornbread in many ways:
With butter and honey: Spread fresh butter on a warm slice and drizzle with honey—a timeless favorite.
As a side dish: Ideal alongside fried chicken, collard greens, or a comforting bowl of gumbo.
In a Southern breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs, spicy sausage, and creamy grits for a complete meal.
Crumbled in chili: Break cornbread into pieces to top chili; it adds a delightful flavor and texture boost.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store your cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Cornbread
Use quality ingredients: The freshness of cornmeal significantly impacts taste. Purchase from local mills or specialty stores for the best quality.
Experiment with add-ins: Consider mixing in jalapeños for a kick, cheese for richness, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
Don’t skip the buttermilk: Its acidity not only enhances flavor but also creates a tender crumb.
Use the Mayonnaise: The use of mayonnaise eliminates the use of eggs. The cornbread is so soft and moist it just melts in your mouth.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the recipe for Nana's Southern Buttermilk Cornbread, it’s time to bake a delicious piece of the South in your kitchen.
This classic dish is more than just food; it connects family traditions and creates cherished memories around the table. Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is sure to impress!
Enjoy the baking process, savor every bite, and remember that cornbread is best enjoyed with loved ones. Happy baking!
**No time to bake? Let me do it for you! Visit Nana's Bakery to place your order(s). **
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Nana 👩🍳
Nana's Bakery (To Place Your Orders)
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