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Classic Southern Fried Cornbread Patties

A stack of four golden brown, crispy fried cornbread patties resting on a white plate.

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Make crispy fried cornbread patties with a soft interior using this simple, old-fashioned recipe. This comfort food is quick to prepare and perfect served with butter or honey.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or bacon grease, plus more for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar if you are using it.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and 1/4 cup milk.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix the batter.
  4. Heat 1/4 inch of oil or bacon grease in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering. The oil is ready when a drop of batter sizzles immediately.
  5. Carefully drop spoonfuls or small ladlefuls of batter into the hot fat, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form patties about 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the edges are deep golden brown and crispy, and the center is cooked through.
  7. Remove the fried cornbread from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve immediately with butter, honey, or alongside your favorite chili or greens.

Notes

  • For the best crispy texture, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the batter.
  • You can substitute bacon grease for vegetable oil for a richer, classic Southern flavor.
  • If you prefer a slightly sweeter cornbread, increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
  • These patties reheat well in a toaster oven to restore crispness.

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