Cornbread shortbread tray

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the tender, crumbly texture of cornbread — but this isn’t your average slice. This Cornbread Shortbread Tray takes inspiration from old-fashioned southern bakes, biscuit bars, and café crumb cakes, layering the warmth of cornmeal into a soft, buttery shortbread base. It’s not a cookie, not a cake — it falls beautifully in between, with golden edges and a delicate cornmeal crumble baked on top for texture.

Perfect for slicing into squares or bars, this tray bake leans sweet but not too sweet, with a hint of honey and a bakery-style richness that makes it shine on its own or dusted with icing sugar. It’s one of those recipes that feels rustic and comforting, but still worthy of a pastry box lineup. Whether you serve it warm with whipped honey butter or chilled with a dollop of compote, it’s designed to feel like a hidden gem straight from the back counter of your favorite bake shop.