Cast Iron Cornbread

Golden, buttery, and crisp-edged, this Cast Iron Cornbread is a Southern-style classic that belongs at every table. Baked in a sizzling cast iron skillet, it develops a crunchy crust while staying moist and fluffy inside. Whether served with chili, barbecue, or simply slathered in honey butter, it’s a warm and comforting side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Skillet Crust – The hot cast iron creates a golden, crunchy edge.
Moist and Tender Inside – Buttermilk and butter give it that perfect texture.
One Bowl Recipe – Quick and easy with minimal cleanup.
Versatile – Sweet or savory, this cornbread can go either way.
Perfect Side Dish – Complements soups, stews, and all your favorite mains.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste or omit for savory)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, mixed and rested 5 minutes)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 tbsp oil or butter (for greasing the skillet)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar
• 1 tbsp chopped jalapeños
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Tools You’ll Need

• 10-inch cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk and spatula
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Skillet

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Place the cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats to get it piping hot.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Stir the Batter

1. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
2. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
3. If using add-ins like cheese or corn, fold them in gently now.

Step 5: Bake the Cornbread

1. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts.
2. Add 1 tbsp of oil or butter and swirl to coat the bottom and sides.
3. Immediately pour the batter into the hot skillet—it should sizzle!
4. Spread evenly and return to the oven.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Let the cornbread rest in the skillet for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm, with butter, honey, or your favorite dish.

Tips for the Best Cornbread
Preheat the Skillet – This creates that signature crispy crust.
Don’t Overmix – Just combine the ingredients for a light, tender texture.
Use Buttermilk – Adds tang and helps with rise.
Sweet or Savory – Adjust the sugar level and add-ins to match your meal.
Let It Rest – Cooling slightly makes it easier to slice and enhances the flavor.

Serving Suggestions
With Chili – A classic pairing with spicy or smoky chili.
Alongside BBQ – Pulled chicken, ribs, or brisket love this cornbread.
As a Breakfast Base – Top with eggs, avocado, or honey butter.
With Soup or Stew – Complements hearty dishes like beef stew or gumbo.
In Stuffing – Cube and toast leftovers for a cornbread dressing.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Room Temp: Store tightly covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Store up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Freezing:

• Slice and wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat from frozen.

Reheating:

• Oven: Wrap in foil and warm at 350°F for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: 15–20 seconds for a quick warm-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

2. What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
You can use an oven-safe baking dish or cake pan, but you won’t get the same crisp crust.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make a day ahead and reheat in the oven to crisp it back up.

4. How do I make it more savory?
Omit the sugar and add cheese, chopped herbs, or jalapeños.

5. What’s the difference between Northern and Southern cornbread?
Northern cornbread is sweeter and more cake-like, while Southern versions are more savory and crumbly. This recipe sits happily in the middle but is easy to adjust either way.

Final Thoughts
Cast Iron Cornbread is comfort food at its best—simple, hearty, and endlessly versatile. Whether you serve it with soup, BBQ, or enjoy it as a snack with honey butter, this skillet cornbread will quickly become a favorite in your home. Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, it’s the ultimate sidekick to all your cozy meals.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your skillet-baked creations.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 8 slices):
Calories: 230 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 23g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 290mg

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