Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins

Name: Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up a batch of Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins whenever I’m in the mood for a comforting side dish. They remind me of family gatherings where the aroma of freshly baked cornbread would fill the air. With a golden crust and a tender crumb, these muffins have a hint of sweetness and a savory depth that pairs beautifully with soups and stews. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an easy choice for any meal!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:37:29.075Z

One of my favorite cooking memories stems from my grandmother’s kitchen, where she taught me the art of making cornbread. I remember her saying that the secret to the perfect cornbread is to let the batter sit for a few minutes before baking, allowing the flavors to meld. This trick makes a noticeable difference in the texture and taste!

This Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins recipe is a staple in my home and has become a family favorite for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. I love serving them alongside chili or just enjoying them warm with a pat of butter!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
A delightful balance of sweetness and savory flavor
Perfectly moist and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile enough to complement any dish or stand alone as a snack

Mastering the Perfect Muffin Texture

Achieving that signature moist and crumbly texture in your cornbread muffins is all about the balance of wet and dry ingredients. The inclusion of both cornmeal and all-purpose flour creates a delightful structure. If you’re looking for a slightly denser texture, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup of cornmeal. However, be cautious not to exceed this, as it could lead to overly dry muffins. The key is to maintain the correct ratios while ensuring a wholesome blend of flavors.

It’s vital to stir the batter gently once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in tough muffins because it develops the gluten in the flour too much. Mix until you see just a few lumps; the batter should be slightly lumpy for that tender crumb. I like to use a spatula or wooden spoon for this step, as they allow for careful folding without the risk of overworking the batter.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The cornmeal plays a fundamental role in creating the distinct flavor and texture of these muffins. Using medium or fine-ground cornmeal is recommended for the best crumb. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute half of the cornmeal with ground oats or almond flour for a different flavor profile and a touch of nuttiness. However, be mindful that this can alter the final texture slightly, so adjustments may need to be made with the liquid components.

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider replacing half of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. You might also want to reduce the overall liquid slightly, as these liquids can add additional moisture. For those who are vegan or dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) in place of regular eggs. These modifications will still yield delicious muffins!

Ingredients

To create these delightful muffins, you'll need the following ingredients:

Cornbread Muffins Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs

Gather these ingredients, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying warm, homemade cornbread muffins!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cornbread muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a muffin tin by greasing it lightly or lining it with muffin liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth. Make sure the ingredients are well incorporated.

Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full for optimal rising.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm with butter or your favorite topping!

Enjoy your freshly baked cornbread muffins as a perfect side for any meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a cup of corn kernels or diced jalapeños to the batter before baking. This adds a delightful twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cornbread muffins can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. Simply let the muffins cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 15 seconds.

To refresh leftover muffins, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes before serving. This reheating method brings back the original moistness and revives their golden crust, making them taste almost freshly baked again. Pairing them with a bit of melted butter or your favorite jam can provide a delicious treat any time.

Serving Suggestions

These Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed warm as a side to various dishes. They pair exceptionally well with chili, gumbo, or any hearty stew. For a fun twist, consider crumbling them as a topping for a casserole or serving them alongside barbecued meats for a delightful contrast in flavors.

If you're hosting a brunch, why not add a Southern flair by offering a cornbread muffin station? Provide toppings such as honey butter, fresh fruit preserves, or even savory options like cheese spreads and bacon bits. This interactive element not only enhances the dining experience but also allows guests to customize their muffins according to their preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix. The texture may vary slightly but should still be delicious.

→ How should I store leftover muffins?

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! Place cooled muffins in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

→ Can I make mini muffins instead?

Yes, simply reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes for mini muffins.