Print

Authentic Southern Skillet Cornbread with Crispy Edges

A close-up slice of golden skillet cornbread with a dark, crispy top resting on a white plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy homemade skillet cornbread in a cast iron skillet for a moist interior and irresistibly crispy, golden edges. This savory, buttermilk-based recipe delivers true Southern comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup bacon grease, melted (or unsalted butter)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a slight sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats for at least 10 minutes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and honey, if using.
  4. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add the bacon grease to the hot skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom and sides completely. The grease should be shimmering hot.
  5. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix only until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  6. Immediately pour the batter into the hot, greased skillet. The batter should sizzle when it hits the hot fat, which helps create the crispy edge.
  7. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

  • For the crispiest edge, ensure your cast iron skillet is fully preheated with the bacon grease hot before adding the batter.
  • If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, increase the honey to 2 tablespoons or add 1/4 cup of sugar to the dry ingredients.
  • Serve this savory cornbread alongside chili or beans for a classic American comfort meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/skillet-cornbread-recipe-cast-iron-crispy-edge/