Skillet Cornbread

A preheated cast iron skillet greased with butter creates a crackling, golden crust on cornbread that a glass dish can't match. Pour the batter into the sizzling-hot skillet and listen for that hiss — it's the sound of a perfect crust forming. Don't overmix, and serve warm with honey butter.

Skillet Cornbread — finished dish

Side · Vegetarian • 30 min

Servings:
8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups (190g) yellow cornmeal
  • ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1½ cups buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Steps

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat while you make the batter.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and honey if using.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined — a few lumps are fine. Do not overmix.
  4. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add butter and swirl to melt, coating the bottom and sides. Pour the batter into the hot skillet — it should sizzle. Smooth the top.
  5. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 18–22 minutes. Cool in the skillet for 5 minutes, then slice into wedges and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Make Ahead

Cornbread is best fresh from the oven. You can mix the dry ingredients up to a week ahead and store in an airtight container.

Storage

Store at room temperature wrapped in foil for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5 minutes. Freeze whole wrapped in foil for up to 2 months.

Substitutions

For a sweeter Northern-style cornbread, increase honey to ¼ cup and add 2 tablespoons sugar. Bacon drippings can replace half the butter for a smoky version. Add 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) and a diced jalapeño to the batter for a loaded cornbread.

Reviews

Reviews coming soon! In the meantime, let us know what you think of this recipe.

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