Southern Skillet Cornbread
Discover the rich and authentic flavors of the American South with this classic Southern Skillet Cornbread recipe. Perfectly moist and filled with a subtle buttery taste, this delicious cornbread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to a simple pat of honey butter. Ideal for family gatherings or simply enjoyed warm right out of the oven, this cornbread is an easy-to-follow recipe that you'll want to make again and again.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
yellow cornmeal
2 cups (none)
buttermilk
1 1/2 cups (none)
egg
1 (beaten)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
baking soda
3/4 teaspoon (none)
vegetable shortening
3 tablespoons (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease an 8-inch cast iron skillet with vegetable shortening or butter to ensure the cornbread doesn’t stick and achieves a crispy crust.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of yellow cornmeal, 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda. Stir until well blended.
3
Melt 3 tablespoons of vegetable shortening and fold it into the cornmeal mixture until fully incorporated.
4
Pour the batter into the prepared skillet, spreading it evenly.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the classic Southern taste.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Skillet Cornbread?
Southern Skillet Cornbread is a classic, savory bread known for its moist interior and crispy, golden-brown crust achieved by baking in a cast iron skillet.
What type of cornmeal is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of yellow cornmeal to provide the traditional color and texture.
Can I use white cornmeal instead of yellow?
Yes, white cornmeal can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly milder and the color lighter.
Why should I use a cast iron skillet?
A cast iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat evenly and helps create the signature crispy crust that Southern cornbread is known for.
What size skillet is needed?
This recipe is designed for an 8-inch cast iron skillet.
What if I do not have a cast iron skillet?
You can use an 8-inch square or round baking pan, though the crust may not be as crispy as it would be in cast iron.
How do I prevent the cornbread from sticking to the skillet?
Generously grease the skillet with vegetable shortening or butter before adding the batter to ensure it releases easily.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results.
Why is buttermilk used in Southern cornbread?
Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and reacts with the baking soda to provide lift and a tender crumb.
Can I substitute buttermilk if I do not have any?
You can make a substitute by mixing 1 1/2 cups of regular milk with 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
How many eggs are required?
This recipe requires 1 egg, which should be beaten before being added to the mixture.
What is the purpose of vegetable shortening?
Melted shortening is folded into the batter to add moisture and richness, while also being used to grease the skillet for a crispy finish.
Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute melted butter for vegetable shortening for a richer, more buttery flavor.
How long does the cornbread take to bake?
It typically takes about 25 minutes to bake until the top is golden brown.
How can I tell when the cornbread is fully cooked?
The cornbread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are pulled away slightly from the skillet.
Does this recipe include sugar?
This traditional recipe does not include sugar, focusing instead on the savory taste of the corn and buttermilk.
Can I add sugar if I prefer sweet cornbread?
Yes, if you prefer a sweeter style, you can add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Is this cornbread gluten-free?
Cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, but you should ensure all your specific ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.
Can I add jalapeños or cheese to the batter?
Yes, you can fold in chopped jalapeños or shredded cheddar cheese before pouring the batter into the skillet for a flavor variation.
How should I store leftover cornbread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze Southern Skillet Cornbread?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
What is the best way to reheat cornbread?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.
Should I preheat the skillet before adding the batter?
While not strictly required by these instructions, preheating the greased skillet in the oven for a few minutes before adding the batter creates an even crispier crust.
What should I serve with Southern cornbread?
It pairs perfectly with chili, beef stew, roasted chicken, or simply served warm with honey butter.
Why did my cornbread turn out dry?
Dry cornbread is often caused by over-baking or using too much cornmeal. Ensure your measurements are level and check for doneness at 20 minutes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based buttermilk substitute (non-dairy milk + vinegar).
Is baking soda necessary?
Yes, the baking soda is the leavening agent that reacts with the buttermilk to make the bread rise.
Can I use a larger 10-inch skillet?
Yes, but the cornbread will be thinner and will likely require a shorter baking time, around 15-20 minutes.
How long should I let the cornbread cool?
Let it cool for about 5 minutes in the skillet before slicing to allow the structure to set.