Crisp on the outside and delightfully tender on the inside, hot water cornbread is a Southern comfort food staple that brings simple ingredients to life with bold texture and flavor. Made with yellow cornmeal, a touch of flour, sugar, and salt, this quick and easy skillet-fried cornbread comes together in just 25 minutes. The secret lies in using boiling water to create a smooth, pliable dough, which is shaped into patties and fried to golden perfection. Its rustic charm and crispy edges make it the perfect accompaniment to soul food classics like collard greens, fried chicken, or a hearty bowl of chili. Ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe offers a nostalgic bite of tradition that’s both satisfying and versatile.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, and salt. Stir together until evenly combined.
Gradually pour in the boiling water, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a thick, smooth dough. It should be soft and easy to form into patties.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. To test, drop a small piece of the dough into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out a portion of the dough and shape it into a small, flat patty. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Carefully place the patties into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
Cook each patty for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them halfway through cooking.
Once cooked, transfer the cornbread patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite dishes, such as collard greens, fried chicken, or chili.
Serving size | 997.2 grams (997.2g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1623 |
Total Fat 124.20g | 159% |
Saturated Fat 17.70g | 89% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 1191mg | 52% |
Total Carbohydrate 130.50g | 47% |
Dietary Fiber 11.40g | 41% |
Total Sugars 0.90g | |
Protein 12.30g | 25% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 5mg | 0% |
Iron 5mg | 26% |
Potassium 229mg | 5% |
Source of Calories