Name: Cheddar Cornbread: Warm, Crispy Perfection for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 Tbsp. Unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing the pan); 1 cup All-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1 3/4 cups Self-rising white cornmeal mix (spooned and leveled); 1 Tbsp. Sugar (to balance the flavors); 1/2 tsp. Kosher salt (enhancing the flavors); 2 1/3 cups Buttermilk (for richness and moisture); 2 large Eggs (as a binder); 6 oz. Cheddar cheese, grated (divided); 1/2 cup Additional Cheddar cheese (for topping)

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There’s something so comforting about the aroma of freshly baked Cheddar cornbread wafting through the kitchen. I was on the hunt for a satisfying side dish one evening when a craving for something warm, cheesy, and slightly sweet took hold of me. As I gathered my ingredients, the promise of a golden crust and a soft interior was too irresistible to ignore.

This Cheddar cornbread recipe is not just easy—it manages to balance the rich, sharp flavor of cheese with the wholesome goodness of cornmeal. Perfect for pairing with soups, chili, or even just a touch of butter and honey, it has become a staple in my home. Imagine biting into a slice where each morsel showcases that delightful contrast of textures, all within just 45 minutes! If you’re tired of fast food and seeking a warm embrace from the oven, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will bring a smile to your dinner table.

Why is Cheddar Cornbread so irresistible?

Warmth and Comfort: There’s nothing like a slice of homemade cornbread to wrap you in a cozy hug on a chilly night.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight side.
Savory and Sweet: The delightful balance of sharp Cheddar and a hint of sugar creates a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.
Versatile Pairing: Whether alongside chili, soup, or as a stand-alone snack with honey, it’s sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: Bring this dish to your next gathering, and watch it disappear as friends and family rave about the flavor!

Cheddar Cornbread Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dish.

For the Batter

Unsalted butter – 4 Tbsp., melted, plus more for greasing the pan to ensure a golden crust.
All-purpose flour – 1 cup, spooned and leveled, to give structure to our cornbread.
Self-rising white cornmeal mix – 1 3/4 cups, spooned and leveled, providing that essential cornbread flavor.
Sugar – 1 Tbsp., to balance the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
Kosher salt – 1/2 tsp., enhancing all the flavors in this Cheddar cornbread.
Buttermilk – 2 1/3 cups, lending richness, moisture, and tanginess to the batter.
Large eggs – 2, acting as a binder to hold our delightful creation together.
Cheddar cheese – 6 oz. (about 1 1/2 cups), grated and divided, for that melty, cheesy goodness.

For the Topping

Additional Cheddar cheese – 1/2 cup, sprinkled on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy finish.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re just steps away from enjoying a warm basket of Cheddar cornbread!

How to Make Cheddar Cornbread

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Generously butter a 9- by 9-inch baking pan to ensure your cornbread releases easily after baking.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal mix, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This will create a light and fluffy base for your Cheddar cornbread.
Combine the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and 1 cup of grated Cheddar in a separate bowl. Whisk until well mixed, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine until no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Transfer the thick batter to your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheddar Cornbread options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the flour, cornmeal mix, sugar, and salt in one bowl and combine the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and Cheddar in another. To maintain quality, store the dry mixture in an airtight container and the wet mixture in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the two bowls, transfer the batter to your prepared pan, sprinkle with more Cheddar, and bake as instructed. You’ll enjoy fresh, homemade Cheddar Cornbread with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Cheddar Cornbread

Perfect Measurement: Always spoon and level your flour and cornmeal mix to ensure accurate measurements. Too much flour can lead to dense cornbread.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature buttermilk and eggs helps create a smooth batter, ensuring your Cheddar cornbread is light and fluffy.
Don’t Overmix: Fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make your cornbread tough rather than tender.
Watch the Time: Keep an eye on your cornbread during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want it golden without burning.
Rest Before Serving: Allow your Cheddar cornbread to cool for a few minutes in the pan before slicing. This helps it set and makes for cleaner slices.

How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Cornbread

Room Temperature: Allow the cornbread to cool completely before storing at room temperature in an airtight container. Enjoy it fresh for up to 2 days.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store your Cheddar cornbread in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the outside.

What to Serve with Cheddar Cornbread?

Imagine a warm gathering where the rich, cheesy aroma of cornbread mingles with hearty dishes, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Spicy Chili: The robust flavors of chili provide a perfect balance to the sweetness of cornbread, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
Savory Barbecue Ribs: Tender, tangy ribs contrast beautifully with the soft texture of cornbread, amplifying the flavors on your plate.
Creamy Tomato Soup: Savor the comforting combination of rich tomato soup and Cheddar cornbread that warms both the palate and the soul.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: The garlicky, nutty flavors of roasted veggies complement the cornbread’s sweetness, adding freshness to your meal.
Herbed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate and offers a refreshing contrast to the warm cornbread.
Crispy Fried Chicken: Juicy, flavorful chicken pairs harmoniously with cheesy cornbread to create a classic, satisfying comfort food duo.
Honey Butter: Drizzling a little honey butter over your warm cornbread enhances its sweetness and richness, making it a simple yet exquisite treat.
Iced Tea: A tall glass of iced tea refreshes your palate and pairs beautifully with the cheesy richness of the cornbread.
Maple Pecan Pie: For dessert, a slice of maple pecan pie continues the comforting theme, leaving everyone with a satisfied sweet tooth at the end of the meal.

Cheddar Cornbread Variations

Feel free to let your imagination run wild and personalize this delightful dish to make it your own!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chopped green chiles for a delightful heat that complements the cheese perfectly. Your taste buds will thank you for this extra adventure!
Herbed Twist: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the batter for a fragrant flavor boost. This adds an aromatic layer that elevates your cornbread experience.
Corn Addition: Toss in a cup of fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels for added sweetness and texture. Each bite will surprise you with a burst of corn goodness!
Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for a unique spin. The world of cheese offers endless possibilities to satisfy your cravings.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free cornmeal to make this cornbread accessible for all. Enjoy without compromising on flavor!
Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil, buttermilk with almond milk, and eggs with flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version. You’ll still enjoy a delicious, cheesy cornbread that everyone will love!
Sweet Variation: Increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons or add honey to the batter for a slightly sweeter profile. Perfect as a treat with your afternoon tea!
Savory Add-Ins: Fold in cooked bacon or diced ham for a savory twist that adds a delightful crunch. This hearty addition turns your cornbread into a meal in itself!

Cheddar Cornbread Recipe FAQs

What type of cornmeal is best for Cheddar cornbread?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using self-rising white cornmeal mix. This kind offers the right blend of corn flavor and leavening agents, giving your cornbread that light, airy quality. If you can’t find self-rising cornmeal, you can create a substitute by combining regular cornmeal with baking powder and salt.

How should I store leftover Cheddar cornbread?
Very! To keep your Cheddar cornbread fresh, let it cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap or placed inside an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Cheddar cornbread?
Absolutely! To freeze your cornbread, first allow it to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, and place it in an airtight container. This way, your cornbread will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through and the edges are crispy.

What if my cornbread is too dense or heavy?
Very! If your cornbread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. To fix this, stir the wet and dry ingredients just until combined – a few lumps are fine! Also, check your flour measurement: spoon and level it for accuracy. If you need to, add a bit more buttermilk to adjust the batter’s consistency, making it a little lighter.

Is Cheddar cornbread pet-friendly?
Not really! While the ingredients in Cheddar cornbread are safe for most humans, the high cheese content and potential for spices are not wonderful for pets. It’s best to keep this treat strictly for human enjoyment unless you’re baking a pet-friendly version without cheese or added salt.

How can I make my Cheddar cornbread more flavorful?
The more the merrier! You can elevate the flavor by adding extras like diced jalapeños for a kick, fresh herbs like chives for a fragrant touch, or even a touch of smoked paprika for depth. Tossing in some crumbled cooked bacon can also add a savory crunch that’s simply irresistible!