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Ina Garten Brown Butter Corn Bread

Ina Garten Brown Butter Corn Bread

In this version, the butter is melted and browned until it develops a rich, toasty flavor before being incorporated into the batter. Combined with cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and a touch of sweetness, the result is a moist, tender crumb with a slightly crisp, golden crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 cup buttermilk, shaken

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or cast-iron skillet.

Step 2: Brown the butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 4: Mix wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, and honey (if using). Slowly whisk in the cooled brown butter, reserving about 2 tablespoons to brush on top later.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the cornbread

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden.

Step 7: Finish with more brown butter

Brush the top with the reserved brown butter as soon as it comes out of the oven for extra richness.

Step 8: Cool and serve  

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.