Learn how to make sweet cornbread that’s both perfectly moist and fluffy. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors and it is perfect for any occasion!

There’s something about the smell of fresh cornbread coming out of the oven that evokes a sense of home and comfort for me.

This homemade sweet cornbread recipe is one that holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of the “jiffy cornbread” I grew up eating but minus all of the added preservatives.

This recipe is my go-to when I am craving that same comforting sweetness and warmth like I craved as a child, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.

Ingredients for Sweet Southern Cornbread:

Creating the perfect homemade cornbread involves combining ingredients that each add a unique layer of flavor, texture, and moisture to the final dish.

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for this recipe, along with some thoughtful substitutions and suggestions to accommodate your dietary needs or preferences.

Sweet Cornbread Recipe — Not pictured: Milk.

Cornmeal – The star of the recipe, providing that distinct corn flavor and grainy texture we love.

All-Purpose Flour – Helps to balance the cornbread, making it less crumbly than cornbread made with cornmeal alone.

Salt – Enhances all of the other flavors in the cornbread. If you’re watching your sodium intake, try reducing the amount slightly, but don’t omit it entirely, as it’s crucial for flavor balance.

Baking Powder – A leavening agent that makes the cornbread rise, resulting in a fluffy texture. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.

Helpful Tip: In a pinch, you can make your own Baking Powder by combining 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar with ½ teaspoon of baking soda to equal 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

Sugar – This adds both sweetness and depth to the cornbread, balancing the savory elements.

Helpful Tip: Coconut sugar can be used in a 1:1 substitution, offering a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the cornmeal nicely.

Honey: Enhances the sweetness and adds moisture to the cornbread.

Helpful Tip: If you prefer to avoid honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup can serve as great alternatives, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile of your cornbread.

Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture, contributing to the cornbread’s tender crumb.

Helpful Tip: An equal amount of a neutral-tasting oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative. Melted coconut oil is another excellent substitution, adding the slightest coconut undertone.

Milk – The liquid component that brings everything together.

Helpful Tip: Coconut milk serves as a fantastic substitute, adding a hint of coconut flavor while maintaining the cornbread’s moist texture.

Egg – Pasture Free Eggs are usually my go-to in this recipe, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

How to Make Sweet Cornbread from Scratch

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter an 8-inch square pan to ready it for the batter.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, honey, and melted butter together until smooth.

Combine the Mixes: Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Bake the Batter: Pour the batter into your greased pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn golden, 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 slicing. This step is crucial as it allows the cornbread to set, ensuring perfect slices.

What to Eat with Cornbread

This sweet cornbread is incredibly versatile, making it the perfect companion to many dishes.

Here are a few suggestions:

Chili: The sweetness of the cornbread complements the spiciness of chili beautifully.
Beef Stew: Dip it in or crumble it over the top for a delightful textural contrast.
Salisbury Steak: The gravy finds a perfect partner in the cornbread’s sweet notes.

The mild sweetness of the cornbread pairs beautifully with the rich and savory flavors of these comfort food recipes, creating a balanced meal.

Homemade Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 stick of butter, melted
1 cup milk

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter an 8-inch square pan to ready it for the batter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
In a separate bowl, mix the milk, honey, and melted butter together until smooth.
Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Pour the batter into your buttered pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing. This step is crucial as it allows the cornbread to set, ensuring perfect slices.

How to Make Homemade Sweet Cornbread Recipe