How to Make the Perfect Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
Southern American · Easy · 35 min · 8 servings
This classic Southern cornbread bakes up golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender and moist on the inside. The preheated cast iron skillet creates an irresistible crust that cannot be replicated in a regular baking pan.
Why this recipe works
This Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 35 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 210 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups yellow cornmeal
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Preheat Skillet
Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Allowing the skillet to heat up with the oven ensures a perfectly crispy bottom crust.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, and baking soda until well combined. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients to prepare for the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Cornbread
Remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the butter, swirling to coat the pan completely. Pour the batter into the skillet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- buttermilk → regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, left to sit for 5 minutes
- unsalted butter → bacon drippings for a smokier, more savory flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the step of preheating the skillet, which results in a soft and pale bottom crust
- Overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and makes the cornbread dense and tough
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 210 calories, 5g protein, 30g carbs, 8g fat, 1g fiber.
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