Cat Cora’s Cornbread Recipe – Soft, Buttery, and Easy to Make!
If you love comfort food, then you’ll definitely enjoy Cat Cora’s Cornbread — a golden, moist, and buttery delight that’s perfect with soups, chili, or even on its own with a bit of honey or butter.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through her style of cornbread in a simple way. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is super easy to follow.
What Makes Cat Cora’s Cornbread Special?
Cat Cora, a celebrity chef known for combining Southern flavors with Mediterranean flair, brings a classic Southern-style cornbread recipe that’s:
- Moist on the inside
- Golden and crisp on the outside
- Not overly sweet
- Easy to prepare in one bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are basic ingredients you might already have at home:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar (optional for light sweetness)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (1 stick) melted butter or oil
- Optional: 1 cup corn kernels, jalapeños, or shredded cheese for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a cast-iron skillet, place it in the oven to heat — this gives a nice crispy bottom.

See also: Cajun Sausage Shrimp Recipe
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Sugar (if using)
- Baking powder
- Salt

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl or measuring cup, beat together:
- Buttermilk
- Eggs
- Melted butter or oil

See also: Mama’s Cornbread Dressing Recipe
Step 4: Combine and Stir
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix — lumps are okay!
Optional: Add corn, jalapeños, or cheese at this stage if you like.

See also: Cat Cora’s Halibut Recipe – A Simple & Delicious Seafood Delight
Step 5: Bake
- Grease your pan or use the preheated cast-iron skillet.
- Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or maple syrup
- Pairs perfectly with chili, soup, or BBQ
- Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or side dish
Tips for Best Results
- No buttermilk? Use 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 mins.
- Want it extra moist? Add a spoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.
- To make it spicy, add jalapeños or chili flakes.
Why You’ll Love This Cornbread
Easy to make in one bowl
No mixer needed
Soft, fluffy, and full of flavor
Can be customized easily
Great for family meals or holiday dinners
Summary
Cat Cora’s cornbread is a simple, buttery, and moist Southern-style bread that’s perfect as a side dish or snack. It’s made with basic ingredients like cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, eggs, and butter. The recipe is easy to follow, ready in about 25 minutes, and can be customized with extras like cheese, corn, or jalapeños. Serve it warm with butter, honey, or alongside chili and soups. It’s a quick, one-bowl recipe that delivers soft, golden, and flavorful results every time.
FAQs about Cat Cora’s Cornbread
Can I make this cornbread ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to a month.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can! But the texture might be a bit denser.
How do I keep the cornbread from being dry?
Don’t overbake it and always use buttermilk or add a little oil or sour cream for moisture.
Can I make it in a muffin tray?
Yes! Just reduce the baking time to 12–15 minutes and check with a toothpick.