Craving a warm, rich treat? You’ll love this Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread! It’s simple to make and bursting with sweet flavor. With just a few easy steps, you’ll bring this golden delight straight from the oven to your table. Whether as a side dish or a stand-alone snack, this cornbread pairs perfectly with honey butter. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the best Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, whisked
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– ½ cup honey
– ½ cup corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons additional unsalted butter (for greasing)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The cornmeal gives the bread its texture. The flour helps it rise. Sugar adds sweetness, while baking powder makes it fluffy. Salt enhances all the flavors. Milk keeps it moist, and eggs bind everything together. Melted butter adds richness, and honey brings a lovely sweetness. Corn kernels add bursts of flavor and texture. Using extra butter to grease the skillet ensures a crispy crust.
With these ingredients, your cornbread will be rich and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Skillet
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your cast-iron skillet inside. This helps warm it up, so your cornbread gets that nice, crispy crust.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the dry items. Add 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of flour, ½ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk them well to break up any lumps.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine your wet items. Whisk 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, ¼ cup of melted butter, and ½ cup of honey. Make sure it’s smooth and mixed well.
Combine and Fold Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold them together. Don’t overmix! Add in ½ cup of corn kernels and fold until they are evenly spread.
Prepare the Hot Skillet
Carefully take the hot skillet out of the oven. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet. Swirl it around until it melts. This step helps create a golden, crispy edge.
Bake the Cornbread
Pour the batter into the hot skillet, spreading it evenly. Place it back into the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The top should be golden, and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get the best texture, use a mix of cornmeal and flour. This blend gives your cornbread a nice crumb. Make sure to fold the batter gently. Overmixing makes it tough. You want it light and fluffy. Adding corn kernels makes it even better. They add a sweet burst in every bite.
Ensuring Even Baking
A hot skillet is key for even baking. Preheat your cast-iron skillet in the oven. This helps the cornbread rise and form a great crust. Keep an eye on the time. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cornbread warm for the best taste. Cut it into wedges for easy sharing. Drizzle extra honey on top for sweetness. A pat of butter adds richness. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a pop of color. This makes your dish look as good as it tastes!
Variations
Adding Spices and Herbs
You can make Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread even more exciting by adding spices and herbs. Try mixing in a teaspoon of chili powder for a kick. A pinch of cumin can add warmth too. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary bring a nice touch. Just chop them finely and fold them into the batter. These additions will enhance the flavor and make each bite special.
Using Different Types of Corn
Have fun by using different types of corn in your cornbread. Sweet corn kernels are a classic choice. You can also use white or blue cornmeal for a unique twist. If you want a richer taste, try adding creamed corn. This makes the cornbread moist and adds a sweet flavor. Experimenting with these options lets you find the perfect taste for your family.
Sweet and Savory Twists
You can create sweet and savory twists to this recipe. Add some crumbled bacon or cheese for a savory delight. A little jalapeño gives it heat if you like spicy food. For a sweeter version, try folding in chocolate chips or dried fruit. These changes will make your cornbread stand out at any meal. Each option offers a new way to enjoy this delicious dish.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, the fridge is a good option. Cornbread will last about a week in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cornbread on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel and heat for about 30 seconds.
Freezing Guidelines
For longer storage, you can freeze the cornbread. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can also place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour. Look for a brand that works well in baking. A blend of rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch often works best. Remember, gluten-free flour may change the texture. It might be slightly more crumbly or dense, but still delicious.
How can I make it less sweet?
To make it less sweet, reduce the sugar. Try cutting the granulated sugar to ¼ cup. You can also skip the honey drizzle on top. This will keep the cornbread tasty but less sweet. You can add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors too.
What can I serve with Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread?
This cornbread pairs well with many dishes. Serve it alongside chili, soups, or barbecued meats. It also works great with a simple salad or roasted veggies. Add a bit of butter or honey on top for extra flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Mix the dry and wet ingredients, but do not combine them yet. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, combine and bake as usual. You can also bake the cornbread and store it covered for a few days. Reheat slices in the oven for best results.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread. We discussed the needed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for a perfect bake. We also looked at tasty variations and storage methods to keep your cornbread fresh.
Now, you can enjoy this delightful treat anytime. Remember, cooking is fun! Experiment with flavors and share your results with friends and family. Your homemade cornbread will surely impress!
