Skillet Cornbread Recipe Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze

I’ve perfected this cast-iron skillet cornbread recipe over countless family dinners, and I’m thrilled to share my go-to version with you. The moment this Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze comes out of the oven, its golden-brown crust and sweet, earthy aroma fill the kitchen, promising a tender interior. This family-friendly skillet cornbread recipe is designed for busy households looking for easy dinner ideas, offering a satisfying, flavorful side that outshines any store-bought alternative. It’s my secret weapon when I need a delicious, yet quick meal that feels special, even on a Tuesday.

Ingredient Blueprint

To make this exceptional skillet cornbread recipe, carefully select your ingredients for the best texture and flavor. Using organic cornmeal and fresh buttermilk will elevate the final taste and texture of your Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze.

• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120g), for structure.
• Cornmeal (yellow or white, medium-ground): 1 cup (180g), for classic texture and flavor. I find medium-ground gives the best bite.
• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g), for sweetness and browning (reduce for lower-sugar options).
• Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon, for lift.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, activated by buttermilk for extra lift.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, to balance flavors.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml), for tanginess and tender crumb (or use 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar, let sit 5 mins).
• Large Eggs: 2, for richness and binding (free-range eggs offer richer flavor).
• Unsalted Butter (melted): 1/2 cup (113g), for moisture and richness (or plant-based butter for dairy-free).
• Honey (for glaze): 2 tablespoons, for a sweet, glossy finish.
• Unsalted Butter (for glaze, melted): 1 tablespoon, to thin the glaze and add richness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Perfect Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread

Follow these clear instructions to achieve a flawlessly golden and tender Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze every time.

1. Preheat skillet: Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 400°F (200°C). Allowing the skillet to get very hot before adding batter ensures a perfectly crispy crust, a hallmark of excellent skillet cornbread.

2. Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps and the mixture is well combined for even rising.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. The mixture should be uniform in color and texture.

4. Mix wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently fold until just combined; a few lumps are fine. What can go wrong & fix it: If you overmix, your cornbread can become tough and dense. Stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks remain. This minimal mixing is key to a tender crumb.

5. Grease hot skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add a pat of butter (about 1 tablespoon) or oil, swirling to coat the bottom and sides thoroughly. The butter should sizzle immediately, indicating optimal heat.

6. Pour batter: Immediately pour the prepared batter into the hot, greased skillet. The batter should spread evenly and slightly sizzle as it hits the hot surface.

7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. For a sweeter cornbread, you can lightly sprinkle an additional tablespoon of sugar over the top before baking. If you want a gluten-free cornbread, ensure you used a GF flour blend and GF cornmeal in the dry ingredients.

8. Apply honey glaze: While the cornbread is still warm, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of melted butter for the glaze. Brush this mixture generously over the entire top of the warm cornbread. The glaze will absorb beautifully, adding a delicious sweetness and shine to your finished skillet cornbread recipe.

When to Enjoy Your Skillet Cornbread

This versatile skillet cornbread recipe makes a delightful addition to many meals: perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy weekend brunch.

• Pairings: Enjoy with chili, stews, fried chicken, or BBQ. Top with butter, jam, or honey.
• Storage: Store leftovers airtight 2-3 days room temp, 1 week fridge. Freeze slices up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Use oven or microwave for best texture.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Value of Cast-Iron Cornbread

This Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze offers real value, supporting healthy eating goals for active families.

• Hearty & Filling: Provides satisfying energy for quick family dinners.
• Customizable: Adjust for lower sugar, added fiber, or protein.
• Kid-Approved: Gets grains into diets, making mealtime easier.
• Adaptable: Fits vegetarian and low-sodium needs with careful preparation.

Time & Budget Insights for Skillet Cornbread

This skillet cornbread recipe is a smart choice for efficient meal planning, offering convenience and value.

• Total Time: Prep 10-15 min, cook 20-25 min (~35-40 min total).
• Approx. Cost: $0.50-$1.00 per slice for Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze. Save using store-brand ingredients.
• Meal Prep: Bake a batch, portion, and freeze slices for quick, healthy sides.

Ingredient Shopping & Premium Picks for Your Cornbread Recipe

For best results with your skillet cornbread recipe, consider ingredient sourcing and quality for this family-friendly meal.

• Where to Buy: Most supermarkets carry core ingredients. Find specialty cornmeal at local mills or farmers markets.
• Quality: Fresh, high-quality dairy and free-range eggs enhance the flavor and texture of your Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze.
• Premium: Explore organic cornmeal and dairy through services like Thrive Market or local co-ops.

Advanced Tips & Customizations for Skillet Cornbread

Elevate your Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread With Honey Glaze with simple tweaks for a perfect family dinner, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

• Upgrades: Add ½ cup chopped jalapeños and ½ cup shredded cheddar. Stir in 1 cup fresh or frozen corn for texture. Brown ¼ cup of the butter before adding for a nutty flavor; I find this truly elevates the final taste.
• Flavor: Sweet: cinnamon sugar swirl. Savory: fresh thyme or rosemary. Spicy: a pinch of cayenne.
• Swaps: Our cornbread recipe is naturally nut-free. For egg-free, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg, let sit 5 min).

FAQs about Skillet Cornbread

Can I use this skillet cornbread recipe for meal prep?

Yes, bake, cool, slice, then freeze portions for quick sides; reheat in oven or microwave.

Is Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread suitable for weight loss?

Yes, reduce sugar and use a light glaze; focus on portion control alongside high-protein meals.

What’s the best substitute for buttermilk in this cornbread recipe?

Mix 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar with regular milk to make 1 cup; let sit 5 min to curdle.

How do I prevent my skillet cornbread from sticking to the pan?

Use a very hot, seasoned, generously greased cast iron skillet; I find this creates the best crispy, non-stick crust.

Can I make this cornbread recipe without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, a 9×13 inch baking dish or other oven-safe skillet works, adjusting bake time slightly for a similar golden finish.

What’s the difference between Northern and Southern cornbread?

Northern cornbread, like our skillet cornbread, often includes sugar and some flour; Southern typically uses only cornmeal and no sugar.

Where can I buy organic cornmeal for this recipe online?

Find organic cornmeal on Amazon, Vitacost, or local health food stores for this recipe.

Conclusion

This easy, homemade cornbread offers a versatile, budget-friendly, and delicious addition to any family meal. I find it always makes busy weeknights feel a little more special. Whip up this comforting skillet cornbread for dinner tonight, or pin it for your next quick family meal!

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