Get ready to transform your dinner table with the most mouthwatering, crispy-edged, moist-centered cornbread that will have everyone begging for seconds! This cast iron skillet cornbread isn't just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that bridges generations of Southern comfort cooking. With a golden, crackling crust and a tender, buttery interior, this recipe is about to become your new go-to bread that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while preheating to ensure it gets hot and helps create a crispy crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended and no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Carefully remove the hot cast iron skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Add 2 tablespoons of additional vegetable oil or butter to coat the bottom and sides of the skillet, creating a non-stick surface and adding flavor.
- Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. A few small lumps are acceptable and will help maintain a tender texture.
- Immediately transfer the batter to the hot, oiled cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The hot skillet will start cooking the bottom of the cornbread instantly, creating a delightful crispy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
- Slice into wedges and serve warm. Optional: brush the top with melted butter for extra richness.
Tips
- Hot Skillet Magic: The key to that legendary crispy crust is a screaming hot cast iron skillet. Preheat it in the oven to ensure maximum crunchiness.
- Don't Overmix: Treat your batter gently! Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cornbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh baking powder and high-quality cornmeal for the best flavor and rise.
- Customize Your Cornbread: Feel free to add mix-ins like jalapeños, corn kernels, or shredded cheese to make it your own.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey for an extra touch of deliciousness.
- Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and warm slightly before serving to restore that fresh-from-the-oven texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
