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Authentic Southern Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread (Crispy Edges)

Close-up of golden brown skillet cornbread in a cast iron pan with a piece removed, showing the crumb texture.
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Make this authentic Southern skillet cornbread in your cast iron pan for irresistibly crispy edges and a moist, tender interior. This savory recipe uses buttermilk for traditional flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or bacon grease (for the batter)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for slight balance)
  • 2 tablespoons bacon grease or oil (for heating the skillet)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the 10-inch cast iron skillet inside the oven while it preheats.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, and optional sugar.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, 1/2 cup oil or bacon grease, and the egg until combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until the batter comes together. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add the 2 tablespoons of bacon grease or oil to the hot skillet, swirling to coat the bottom and sides completely. The grease should shimmer.
  6. Pour the batter immediately into the hot, greased skillet. You should hear a sizzle.
  7. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For the crispiest edges, ensure your skillet is fully preheated and the fat is hot before you pour in the batter.
  • If you prefer a completely savory cornbread, omit the optional tablespoon of sugar.
  • This cornbread pairs perfectly with chili or slow-cooked beans.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/skillet-cornbread-recipe-cast-iron-crispy-edge/