Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins

Name: Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons honey

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

When I think of comfort food, Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins always come to mind. There's something incredibly satisfying about their golden crust and slightly crumbly texture, especially served warm with a pat of butter. We love these muffins with everything from chili to fried chicken, and trust me, they are as easy to whip up as they are delicious. I’ve experimented with different recipes, but this one truly stands out for its moistness and rich corn flavor. If you’re craving a little taste of the South, look no further!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:25:29.036Z

As I started crafting my version of cornbread muffins, I aimed for that perfect balance of sweetness and texture. After several attempts, I discovered that adding a touch of honey elevates the flavor while contributing to the moisture. The muffins come out fluffy yet slightly dense—just how I like them. Pairing them with honey butter takes the experience to a whole new level!

Another detail that I find essential is to let the batter rest for a few minutes before scooping it into the muffin tin. This allows the baking powder to activate fully, giving you a beautifully risen muffin. Trust me, these little tricks make all the difference in achieving the ultimate Southern cornbread experience.

        Why You Will Love These Muffins!
        Perfectly sweet with just the right amount of corn flavor
Moist and fluffy texture everyone will love
Great side for soul food, BBQ, or family gatherings

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins. For the cornmeal, opt for stone-ground varieties if possible; they often offer a richer taste and better texture compared to finely milled options. Additionally, make sure your baking powder is fresh—check the expiration date—since old leavening agents can result in flat muffins that lack the delightful fluffiness we all love.

When it comes to the milk, whole milk will provide a creamier texture compared to low-fat or skim options, enhancing the overall moistness of the muffins. If you're looking for a dairy substitute, almond milk or oat milk can work, but be aware that these may alter the flavor slightly. For a little twist, you could even use buttermilk, which will give your muffins a subtle tang and improve the richness.

Mixing Technique Matters

The way you mix your ingredients can significantly affect the final texture of your cornbread muffins. When combining the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, use a gentle folding motion instead of vigorous stirring. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins due to gluten development, so it’s best to stir until just combined, leaving a few small lumps. This technique ensures that the muffins rise properly while remaining tender.

If you're in a hurry or want to streamline the process, consider preparing the dry and wet ingredients separately ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator the night before baking. Just remember to let the wet ingredients come to room temperature before combining them with the dry to avoid any temperature shock that could hinder the baking process.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

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

Mix well and you’re ready for baking!

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine milk, vegetable oil, honey, and egg. Whisk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix!

Bake

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm with butter.

Enjoy your delicious cornbread muffins!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunchy top, sprinkle a little cornmeal on the muffin batter before baking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These cornbread muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for about a week. For optimal freshness, consider freezing them. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your muffins after freezing, there’s no need to defrost them; simply pop them straight into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will refresh their texture and bring back that wonderful warmth that makes them so comforting. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30-45 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat as this might result in a chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

While these Classic Southern Cornbread Muffins shine on their own, enhancing them with accompaniments can elevate your meal. Try serving them crisped up in a skillet with a dollop of honey butter or alongside homemade chili for a warm, satisfying pairing. Their slightly sweet, hearty flavor complements rich dishes beautifully, making them a versatile side.

For a delightful twist, you can experiment with mix-ins like jalapeños or shredded cheese for an added kick. If you enjoy sweet variations, consider adding blueberries or chopped apples to batter before baking for a fruity twist. These variations can change the profile while still maintaining the beloved texture of the classic muffin.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ How can I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add ingredients like cheese or jalapeños?

Yes! Feel free to mix in shredded cheese or chopped jalapeños for a savory twist.

→ What can I serve with cornbread muffins?

They pair wonderfully with chili, soups, or barbecued dishes.