The Patti LaBelle Hot Water Cornbread Recipe is warm, golden and full of Southern comfort.
Each bite is crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a rich corn flavor that melts in your mouth.
This classic soul food dish is easy to make and pairs perfectly with collard greens, fried chicken, or beans. Patti LaBelle’s version brings that homestyle taste everyone loves — simple, hearty, and delicious.
When I First Introduced To It
I first made Patti LaBelle Hot Water Cornbread on a Sunday dinner. The smell filled the kitchen, and the golden rounds sizzled in the pan.
When I took my first bite, I knew this was a recipe to keep forever — crisp, warm, and pure comfort.
Recipe Detail
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Total Servings: 8 pieces
- Calories: 170 per piece
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Southern American
Equipment List
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Kettle or pot for boiling water
- Cast-iron skillet
- Frying spoon or spatula
- Paper towels
Ingredients List
- 2 cups yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 cup boiling water (add more if needed)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Step by Step (Preparation)
Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, add cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
Stir the dry ingredients together.
Step 2:
Slowly pour in boiling water while stirring.
Mix until the batter is thick and smooth.
It should be soft but not runny.
Step 3:
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Let it get hot, but not smoking.
Step 4:
Scoop a spoonful of batter and shape it into a small patty.
Carefully place it into the hot oil.
Step 5:
Fry each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
Do not overcrowd the pan — cook in batches.
Step 6:
Remove the cornbread and place it on paper towels to drain.
Repeat until all patties are fried.
Step 7:
Serve warm and enjoy the rich, crispy flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Use hot boiling water to form the batter correctly.
- For extra flavor, add a little melted butter to the mix.
- Make small patties for crispier edges.
- Don’t flip too early — wait until the edges turn golden.
- Keep the oil hot for even frying.
- Sprinkle a little sugar for a sweeter version.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Best Serving Ideas
1. With Collard Greens:
Hot water cornbread goes perfectly with savory greens.
2. With Fried Chicken:
Enjoy it beside crispy fried chicken for a true Southern meal.
3. With Chili or Beans:
Use it to soak up the flavorful juices — just like tradition!
FAQs About Patti LaBelle Hot Water Cornbread Recipe
Can I bake it instead of frying?
Yes, but it won’t be as crispy. Frying gives the best texture.
Can I use white cornmeal?
Yes, but yellow cornmeal gives richer color and flavor.
Can I make the batter ahead?
No, it’s best made fresh with hot water.
Why is my cornbread too hard?
You may have added too little water or cooked it too long.
Can I add butter to the batter?
Yes, a tablespoon of melted butter adds great flavor.
Conclusion
The Patti LaBelle Hot Water Cornbread Recipe is a true Southern treasure. It’s crispy, warm, and packed with homemade goodness.
Whether served with soul food or a simple meal, it always brings comfort and joy to the table. Try it once, and it’ll become your favorite side dish forever.
Patti LaBelle Hot Water Cornbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar optional
- 1 cup boiling water add more if needed
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, add cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
- Stir the dry ingredients together.
Step 2:
- Slowly pour in boiling water while stirring.
- Mix until the batter is thick and smooth.
- It should be soft but not runny.
Step 3:
- Heat about ½ inch of oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Let it get hot, but not smoking.
Step 4:
- Scoop a spoonful of batter and shape it into a small patty.
- Carefully place it into the hot oil.
Step 5:
- Fry each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Do not overcrowd the pan — cook in batches.
Step 6:
- Remove the cornbread and place it on paper towels to drain.
- Repeat until all patties are fried.
Step 7:
- Serve warm and enjoy the rich, crispy flavor.
Notes
- Use hot boiling water to form the batter correctly.
- For extra flavor, add a little melted butter to the mix.
- Make small patties for crispier edges.
- Don’t flip too early — wait until the edges turn golden.
- Keep the oil hot for even frying.
- Sprinkle a little sugar for a sweeter version.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
