Here’s a recipe for traditional Southern skillet cornbread – perfect for your next family dinner, barbecue, or as a hearty companion to a warm bowl of chili.
Southern Cornbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C). The hot skillet is key to that crispy, golden crust we all love!
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the buttermilk, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Create the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix – a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Prepare the skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (don’t forget your oven mitts!). Add the butter and swirl to coat the bottom and sides as it melts.
- Bake the cornbread: Pour the batter into the hot, buttered skillet. Listen for that satisfying sizzle! Smooth the top with a spatula and place it back in the oven.
- Bake to perfection: Let it bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cornbread to cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Southern Cornbread Success
- Buttermilk is key: It adds a delightful tanginess and helps create a tender crumb. If you’re out of buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Don’t skimp on the cast-iron: A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is essential for that crispy crust. If you don’t have one, it’s a worthy investment for your kitchen!
- Resist the urge to add sugar: Traditional Southern cornbread isn’t sweet. If you prefer a sweeter version, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients, but purists might argue it’s no longer “Southern”!
- Serve it up right: While delicious on its own, try serving your cornbread with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite chili or barbecue for a true Southern experience.
There’s something truly special about pulling a perfectly golden skillet of cornbread out of the oven. The way it fills your home with that warm, comforting aroma is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re gathering for a family dinner, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a taste of the South, this traditional skillet cornbread is sure to hit the spot.
So grab your cast-iron skillet, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a little Southern comfort in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this homemade cornbread, you’ll never want to go back to the boxed mix again!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy cornbread? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
