Classic Soul Food Cornbread (Printable)

Golden, moist cornbread baked in cast-iron skillet paired with rich honey butter.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup yellow cornmeal
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 3/4 teaspoon fine salt

→ Wet Ingredients

07 - 1 cup whole milk
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
10 - 1/4 cup vegetable oil

→ For Greasing

11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Honey Butter

12 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
13 - 2 tablespoons honey
14 - Pinch of salt

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat while preparing the batter.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil until fully combined.
04 - Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
05 - Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the oven. Add 2 tablespoons butter and swirl to coat the bottom and sides evenly.
06 - Pour batter into the hot buttered skillet and smooth the top surface.
07 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - While cornbread bakes, beat softened butter with honey and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth and fluffy.
09 - Let cornbread cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with honey butter.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Golden, moist cornbread with a tender crumb baked right in a cast-iron skillet.
  • Simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
  • Honey butter adds a sweet, creamy finish to every warm slice.
  • Perfectly easy recipe suitable for beginners.
  • A true Southern classic that pairs beautifully with many dishes.
02 -
  • Always preheat the cast-iron skillet to achieve a crispy crust.
  • Use room temperature eggs and melted butter to blend the batter smoothly.
  • Serve the cornbread warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
  • Store leftovers wrapped tightly and reheat gently to maintain moisture.
  • Check your cornmeal and flour packaging to avoid allergens caused by cross-contamination.
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