A cozy evening at home calls for comfort food that hits all the right notes, and Crispy Fried Cornbread is just that! There’s nothing quite like the crunch of perfectly fried cornbread that breaks into a soft, fluffy center. This delightful dish is often a staple in Southern cuisine and makes for an excellent side for hearty meals or even as a stand-alone snack. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, its charm lies not just in its taste but in the happy memories it evokes.

Why you’ll love this dish

Crispy Fried Cornbread is not just food; it’s an experience—simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. This dish is quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and easily customizable to please even the pickiest of eaters. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner alongside a robust chili or a warm soup, but it can also shine at brunch alongside eggs or fresh fruit. And let’s be honest, what’s not to love about that golden-brown exterior?

"I made this for a Sunday brunch, and it was a total hit! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—absolutely perfect!" – Jessica M.

Preparing Crispy Fried Cornbread

Creating this delightful dish is a straightforward endeavor. You’ll start by mixing up your dry ingredients and then combine them with the wet ones, forming a nearly dough-like mixture rather than a batter. This unique texture is what gives the cornbread its signature crunch when fried! The cooking process involves frying heaping tablespoons of the dough in hot oil, achieving that coveted golden brown color that’s so appetizing. Before diving into the cooking details, let’s go over what you’ll need.

What you’ll need

To make Crispy Fried Cornbread, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1⁄2 cups cornmeal
• 1/2 cup self-rising flour
• 1 1⁄2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1⁄2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (divided)

Feel free to substitute the buttermilk with regular milk if you don’t have it on hand, but keep in mind the rich flavor adds a lovely tang to the final product.