Buttermilk Cornbread Muffins
Golden, slightly crumbly cornbread muffins with a tender crumb and a hint of tang from buttermilk. These Southern-style muffins come together in one bowl and bake up in just 15 minutes, giving you warm, buttery bites that are perfect alongside chili, barbecue, or just slathered with honey butter.
For 4 servings
- prep
Preheat the oven and grease the muffin tin.
1.Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).2.Generously grease 8 cups of a 12-cup muffin tin with butter.TIPGrease even if using non-stick — cornbread sticks easily. - mix
Mix the dry ingredients.
1.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. - mix
Mix the wet ingredients.
1.In a separate small bowl or measuring jug, whisk together the beaten egg, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth. - mix
Combine wet and dry ingredients.
1.Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.2.Stir gently with a spatula just until no dry streaks remain. The batter will be lumpy.TIPDo not overmix — a lumpy batter makes tender muffins. Overmixing makes them tough. - bake · ~15 min
Fill the muffin tin and bake.
1.Divide the batter evenly among the 8 greased muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.2.Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.TIPRotate the pan halfway through for even browning. - rest · ~5 min
Cool the muffins before serving.
1.Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes.2.Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender texture, use fine or medium-grind cornmeal, not coarse.
- 2Grease the muffin tin generously with butter even if it's non-stick; cornbread loves to cling.
- 3Stir the batter only until no dry streaks remain — a few lumps are okay and ensure a tender crumb.
- 4Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to promote even golden browning.
- 5Let muffins cool in the tin for exactly 5 minutes before turning out to avoid sticking.
- 6Serve warm for the best buttery flavor and soft texture; leftover muffins reheat well in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Jalapeño-cheddar
Fold 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar and 1 diced jalapeño (seeded) into the batter for a savory, spicy twist perfect alongside chili.
honey butterHoney-butter
Swap the 2 tbsp sugar for 3 tbsp honey and serve with whipped honey butter for a sweeter, dessert-like muffin.
gluten freeGluten-free
Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend (containing xanthan gum) for celiac-friendly cornbread muffins.
herb gardenHerb-garden
Add 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives or parsley to the batter for a fresh, savory note that pairs with roasted meats.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Whole Grains
Cornmeal provides whole-grain fiber and B vitamins, supporting digestion and energy metabolism.
Lower in Sugar
With only 2 tablespoons of sugar for 8 muffins, these are significantly less sweet than many bakery-style cornbreads.
Calcium from Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds a dose of calcium and probiotics (if cultured) for bone and gut health.
Frequently asked questions
Overmixing the batter develops gluten, making muffins tough and dry. Stir just until combined and don't overbake — check at 13 minutes.



