![\"Cast](\"https:\/\/bakefromscratch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Fromthepantry430SWS-696x1044.jpeg\" "\\"Fromthepantry430SWS\\"\/")
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Mayonnaise is oil and egg yolk already evenly dispersed. That structure allows fat to coat flour proteins efficiently from the start, limiting gluten development and producing a finer, more cohesive crumb. It doesn\u2019t make the cornbread richer in flavor; it makes it more defined in texture\u2014soft but not cakey, sturdy but not dry. Buttermilk activates the baking soda, baking powder ensures steady lift, and the hot cast-iron skillet sets the outer starches immediately, creating the golden-brown crust that defines great cornbread. The mayonnaise disappears into structure. What remains is cornbread at its best\u2014crisp-edged, tender-centered, and improved by an ingredient designed to bind fat and water seamlessly.<\/p>\n
Mayonnaise Cornbread<\/h2>\n
Makes 1 (8-inch) loaf<\/span><\/p>\n Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C). Place an 8-inch cast-iron skillet in oven while oven preheats.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n In a medium bowl, whisk together fl our, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n In another medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk buttermilk mixture into fl our mixture just until combined.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Working quickly but carefully, add butter to skillet, swirling skillet until butter is melted and skillet is evenly coated. Pour batter into skillet.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Bake until edges are browned, top is crisp, and an instant-read thermometer inserted in center registers 205\u00b0F (96\u00b0C) to 210\u00b0F (99\u00b0C), 20 to 25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excess browning, if necessary. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Best served hot. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Note: Be sure you\u2019re using plain cornmeal rather than cornmeal mix or cornbread mix, both of which have flour, leavener, and salt already added.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
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